This reverse is true with newspapers. The newcomer fewer than 50 journalists against the SPH s army of 1,000. Time is what its rival is not prepared to give it. On May 14 MediaCorp s Sports City will become City Channel, with an additional 35 hours a week more of Chinese shows. Indications are it may face an even tougher time.
TV stations are, however, much more expensive to launch.
For both sides the timing was bad. Advertisement revenues are declining along with the economy. For the government the TV war serves a national purpose. Thanks to cable, Singaporeans have access to a growing number of more than 40 foreign TV channels. The authorities are worried by the invasion of foreign cultures.