The Media Prima brand has launched a multi-platform stage for children’s programmes, writes Nur Aqidah Azizi
LITTLE Red Riding Hood, Sailormoon, Willy Wonka, Naruto and Pocahontas came to “life” at Empire Ballroom, Empire Hotel Subang, leaving the audience in awe at an event to launch Media Prima’s new “baby”, Bananana.
Even Media Prima Television Networks chief operating officer Ahmad Izham Omar dressed up as Goku, the famous character from popular Japan cartoon series, Dragon Ball.
Media Prima employees donned the costumes of various comic characters to mark the premiere of Bananana, a multi-platform umbrella brand for children’s content across the four Media Prima television stations: TV3, NTV7, TV9, 8TV and its video portal, Tonton.
Viewers will be spoilt for choice with the various programmes lined up.
“The content in Bananana is not only suitable for children, but also the entire family,” says Ahmad Izham. “Rest assured that a lot of interesting programmes will soon be unveiled with the birth of Bananana.
“Under Bananana, all cartoon programmes across Media Prima stations will be managed under one roof. We are also aiming to add more cartoons to offer more variety.”
Under Bananana, international cartoons such as the popular Ben 10 and Doraemon will also be aired.
“Local animation like Upin & Ipin and Boboiboy have a strong following too. These popular series will be back with their new seasons and there are discussions to air the series in other countries in Asia.”
Local animation series Bola Kampung, Supertots and Dunia Eicak will also join the line-up.
Bananana is also seen as a platform to discover new talents in the animation industry.
“Through Bananana, we hope to attract animation companies in coming up with creative ideas,” says Ahmad Izham.
With the local animation industry showing positive progress, the timing is just right for Bananana to offer a platform for aspiring animators to kick-start their careers.
“There are a lot of talented animators out there but perhaps, they have no idea where to go. Or perhaps, there are not enough opportunities for them to work in the industry. Bananana aims to scout for these talents.”
Media Prima has also launched Bananana Studios, which is set to become a key player in producing animation programmes.
As of February, Media Prima is the biggest contributor of local children’s programme in the country at 46.6 per cent.
Ahmad Izham added that Bananana Studios will work closely with MDec, finance agency Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd and animation house Rhythm and Hues Malaysia in search of new animation talents. “For a start, we have launched The Next Big Thing Project campaign on Tonton, which will showcase projects by local animators. Fans can vote for the best project and the winner will receive full capital backing from MDec to produce animation programmes, which will be aired on one of the Media Prima stations.” he said.
The campaign is scheduled to start on July 1 and can be followed at www.tonton.com.my.
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