SIBC launches new year countdown coverage in Auki
By Alfred Pagepitu in Auki
The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) launched its 2025 New Year Countdown in the Malaita provincial capital, Auki yesterday.
The launch means that SIBC will host its annual new year countdown in Auki via Auki 96.3 FM.
In his remarks during the launching at the Auki Gateway Motel Conference Room, SIBC Chief Executive Officer Johnson Honimae thanked the Malaita provincial government for allowing SIBC, the voice of the nation, to host the new year countdown in Auki.
“We are thankful to the provincial government and listeners in Malaita for launching this year’s annual New Year’s countdown in Auki from today until January 1, 2025.”
“Thank you for your assistance in making this historic occasion possible today.”
SIBC Chief Executive Officer Johnson Honimae
“This is the first time ever for SIBC to launch its annual New Year’s countdown program from a provincial capital in its 27-year history of broadcasting in this country,” Honimae said.
With assistance from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), installed two FM transmitters on the Solomon Telekom Tower on the hill behind the provincial premier’s official residence.
One of the transmitters carries SIBC’s FM 96.3 and ABC’s Radio Australia FM 107.
(From L-R) Malaita Provincial Secretary Erick George and SIBC Manager Sales and Marketing Moddie Nanau
With the transmitters, SIBC has seen an increase in the number of listeners in and outside of Auki through calls and text messages.
“There has been a significant improvement in the quality of reception on transistor radios, car radios, and FM on mobile devices,” Honimae said.
Meanwhile Malaita’s Provincial Secretary Erick George acknowledged SIBC for its collaboration and mutual understanding in reaching out to communities in Auki with this year’s new year countdown schedule.
He said this year’s countdown in Auki will positively promote the development of Malaita Province for a brighter future.
He called on Malaita citizens to take full advantage of the opportunity that will foster inclusiveness and empowerment across diverse cultures.
SIBC is providing live broadcast events in Auki, the final countdown, a church service with the South Sea Evangelical Church and breakfast shows.
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