Saudi Arabia's Islamic TV channels fulfill world demand

(MENAFN - Arab News) Saudi Arabia has launched two satellite TV channels to spread the messages of the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah (life and teachings) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) throughout the world.

Culture and Information Minister Abdul Aziz Khoja said Tuesday that the two channels could be viewed by people in Southeast Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa, North Americas and Hawaii.

The channels were officially launched Dec. 18 covering the Arab region while their programs were telecast on most international satellites on Dec. 24. The coverage of the remaining areas will be completed on Jan. 21.

Khoja said the two channels were established by the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, adding that they were a gift from the king to the Islamic world. "King Abdullah wanted the two channels to reach all Muslims in the world," he added.

Prince Turki bin Sultan, assistant minister of culture and information, said the launch of the two channels reflected the Kingdom's efforts in the service of Islam and Muslims.

Referring to the ministry's plan to launch an economic channel, Prince Turki said the new channel would highlight the Kingdom's position as the world's 19th largest economy.

Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the Middle East with the biggest stock market.

There will be a fourth channel for culture and dialogue, he said. "King Abdullah considers dialogue a human, cultural and religious necessity in this world where all barriers have been broken down and the interests of people and countries are intertwined," he added.

The ministry will also launch five FM radio stations shortly. It has already short-listed 15 companies to operate the stations.

By P.K. Abdul Ghafour

Source: Middle East North Africa Financial News (MENAFN).
Link: http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093292534&src=NLEN.