Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) is set to secure broadcasting rights for several more world-class sporting events following the successful free-to-air coverage of the entire 2026 FIFA World Cup, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil has announced.
Speaking after attending the Unity Merdeka x RTM World Cup 2026 programme at Dataran Merdeka early Monday, Fahmi revealed that RTM Director-General of Broadcasting Ashwad Ismail had informed him that more major tournaments would soon be added to the broadcaster’s lineup. He said the official announcement would be made at a later date. The move reflects RTM’s ongoing efforts to expand access to premium sporting content for viewers across Malaysia.
Fahmi, who is also the Madani Government spokesperson, said the Communications Ministry will first obtain the complete viewership data for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final before carrying out a comprehensive review of the tournament’s overall broadcast performance.
Although the coverage experienced several technical issues at the beginning, Fahmi said the problems were quickly identified and successfully resolved.
“I will obtain the figures later, and we will review the final broadcast. There were some technical issues at the beginning that were identified and successfully resolved,” he said.
He added that the World Cup coverage had also provided RTM with an opportunity to explore new broadcasting technologies, including improving the viewing experience for audiences watching television content on smartphones.
“I believe this is a good opportunity for us to embrace new technologies, including the ability for Malaysians to watch television on their smartphones,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ashwad said RTM intends to strengthen strategic partnerships with local media organisations to ensure Malaysians continue to enjoy high-quality programming, including coverage of major international sporting events.
He stressed that the department views collaboration, rather than competition, as the best way to serve the public.
“This is not about who owns exclusive broadcasting rights, who wins or who loses. When it comes to content that Malaysians need, the Department of Broadcasting Malaysia believes it goes beyond competitive rivalry,” he said.
Ashwad added that the collaborative approach introduced during the FIFA World Cup would not end with football, but would be expanded to cover other major sporting events in the future, ensuring more Malaysians can enjoy world-class competitions through RTM.
