Kuala Lumpur – Astro All Asia Networks plc posted a net profit of RM27.8mil for the second quarter ended July 31 compared with a net loss of RM247.3mil in the previous corresponding period, reports The Star Online. However, the pay TV operator’s net profit was lower compared with RM34.5mil in the first quarter mainly due to higher finance costs (up by RM13.2mil) and higher cost due to the cessation of the satellite direct-to-home (DTH) business proposal in Indonesia and expenses previously incurred in its development. It was partially offset by higher earnings before interest, tax, and depreciation by RM13.4mil. For the six months ended July 31, Astro posted a net profit of RM62.3mil against a net loss of RM249.9mil in previous corresponding period. Revenue was higher at RM1.51bil from RM1.45bil a year ago. In a separate statement, Astro TV chief executive officer Rohana Rozhan said the group had delivered “a good set of results” by focusing on quality, value and service for our customers. “Overall customer growth is up year-on-year and we are selling more products across the board. Good cost controls have allowed us to turn our operational performance into strong financial results,” she said. Rohana said the group would invest an additional RM200mil, including RM100mil in capital in the current financial year to deliver the broadcast of high-definition TV to retain its market leadership in Malaysia. For the quarter ended July 31, Astro gained 53,000 net adds and 154,000 gross adds, bringing its penetration of TV households in Malaysia to 47%, according to the report.