Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) today launched its new FM Radio Station, Radio Fly.
The launching marked the community radio station’s return to broadcasting after nearly six
years when it was suspended following the El Nino event in 2015.
Unlike the old Radio Fly station which broadcasted using an analogue studio, the new one
features two new digital studios which will be used for live broadcasting, and the production of
news and community radio programs.
The launch marks the completion of Phase 1 of the project which also included the installation
of a new 300-watt transmitter in Tabubil, providing coverage to residents of the township, and
the nearby communities.
Phase 2 is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year and will include the installation
of a 2.5 kilo-watt transmitter to extend coverage to Bige, Kiunga, and parts of the Middle Fly
area. The total cost of the project is K1.3 million.
OTML Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Musje Werror, while launching the new
radio station, said with the re-introduction of the radio service, the Company will now be able
to disseminate information more widely to its workforce and the communities.
“The need to re-establish Radio Fly came about as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic
whereby OTML, as a major stakeholder in Western Province, needs to keep its workforce and
communities regularly informed about the measures the Company is implementing to keep
people and operations safe from COVID-19,” Mr Werror said.
“We also needed a communication medium that will help us quickly disseminate information
on the mine’s operations, community projects, and provide some entertainment, not just to our
workforce, but our communities as well. With Radio Fly back on air, our stakeholders will start
receiving up to date information.”
Radio Fly will be broadcasting on the FM frequency 104.1. The radio studios were built by TE
(PNG) Ltd, with support from several OTML line departments such as the Information and
Communication Technology, Infrastructure Support Services, Supply and Logistics, and the
Communications and Public Relations department, who will be the custodian of the new radio