Thailand – MCOT Public Company Limited has entered into a strategic alliance with Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Asia, a division of Viacom Inc., and appleTool Co. Ltd, a local general entertainment content provider and subsidiary of VR1 Media Group, to collaborate on production, licensing, and distribution and live events for MTV Thailand. This follows an announcement on an exclusive licensing agreement between VIMN and appleTool to bring back MTV Thailand.

At a signing ceremony in front of Thai media and trade partners, MCOT also announced a licensing agreement with VR1 Media Group to offer a Nickelodeon branded block on MCOT’s Modernine that will launch on June 22. 

Plans for MTV Thailand include local productions, on-ground events and an enhanced range of programmes specially catered for the Thai youth market, including the “MTV VJ Hunt” for Thailand. The selected MTV VJs will become the extension of the brand’s personality in Thailand, present MTV Thailand’s original productions, and introduce viewers to the hottest local and international talents. 

“I am delighted we are joining hands with appleTool, a strong local content producer, who will be responsible for the localisation of MTV Thailand. This is a ground-breaking alliance that has not been done in the Thai media industry and will really bring us to the forefront of local content production. Look out for more to come, including a move towards digitisation. VIMN brings expertise in creating youth-oriented programming, brand strength and production expertise into the mix. Furthermore, we will be bringing Nickelodeon to Modernine. I am confident of the success of this strategic alliance that really strengthens our channels’ line-up for our audiences,” said Dr. Anek Permvongseni, President of MCOT Public Company Limited.