In a move that’s sent ripples across the media landscape, Voice TV, the brainchild of Panthongtae “Oak” Shinawatra, is set to pull the plug on its broadcasting operations across all platforms come the end of May. This decision marks the end of an era for a network that not only bore the Shinawatra family name but also carried a torch for a unique brand of journalism for 15 years. The shuttering of Voice TV means about 100 talented reporters and staff members are poised to bid adieu to what many considered a second home.
Founded in the vibrant year of 2008 with a hefty purse of 300 million baht by none other than the offspring of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, Voice TV burst onto the scene during a time when getting your news fix meant wrestling with a satellite TV setup. The media landscape back then was starkly different, and Voice TV was among the pioneers ready to dance to the digital tune. By 2014, after joining the digital TV fray among other eager operators, Voice TV began its digital broadcasting journey, shaping a new path in Thai media.
The inception of Voice TV under the umbrella of Oak’s How Come Entertainment, which later evolved into Voice TV Co Ltd, wasn’t just another business venture. It was a bold step into the limelight, a venture aimed at resonating with about 22 million households nationwide through a concoction of digital terrestrial, satellite, and cable TV magic. The network’s pro-Thaksin stance was no secret, making its voice heard loud and clear across the nation.
However, the winds of change, coupled with economic headwinds and the relentless evolution of the media sphere, prompted Voice TV to announce its gradual curtain call. The decision wasn’t made lightly, considering the platform’s journey through the thick and thin of political upheavals, demonstrations, coups, the relentless COVID crisis, and the seismic shifts from satellite to digital and the online maelstrom of social platforms.
The farewell note, a mix of gratitude and reflection, highlighted Voice TV’s journey as one punctuated by resilience and dedication to push the boundaries of journalism and stimulate societal introspection. As the network prepares to sign off, it reassures that it will do right by its team, promising fair compensation in line with legal stipulations, a fitting tribute to those who contributed to its legacy.
And so, as Voice TV prepares to lower its broadcast flag, it leaves behind a legacy of having dared to challenge, inspire, and contribute to the rich tapestry of Thai society. In an age where media platforms mushroom overnight and the quest for democracy continues, Voice TV’s departure is a reminder of the ever-changing media landscape and the power of a voice that dared to echo through the halls of time. “We pride ourselves on making a contribution to society. We are proud of who we are and what we have done,” the statement poignantly concludes, encapsulating the end of an impactful chapter in Thai media history.
Honestly, Voice TV was always a mouthpiece for the Shinawatra family. Not surprised they’re shutting down. It’s hard to keep the credibility when you’re so blatantly biased.
Every media outlet has a bias, but at least Voice TV brought light to issues ignored by others. It’s a sad day for democracy in Thailand.
I get your point, but democracy also needs unbiased reporting. Voice TV never pretended to be impartial, which is a major part of the problem.
Bias or no bias, shutting down any media platform is a blow to free speech. We should all be concerned when voices are getting silenced.
It’s more about the evolution of media. Traditional outlets are struggling to keep up with digital changes. Voice TV is just another victim of this shift.
Digital transition or not, the point is we’re losing a platform that dared to challenge the status quo. That’s not just evolution; that’s also about political pressure.
This is heartbreaking! 😢 Voice TV was more than just a network for many of us. It felt like a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil in our country.
Hope is important, but so is factual and unbiased journalism. Did Voice TV meet the latter criteria consistently?
In times when so many just regurgitate government lines, challenging authority and sparking conversations was Voice TV’s way of being factual through context.
The end of an era, but also a reminder of the chilling effects on media freedom worldwide. Thailand just lost a critical voice at a time when it’s needed the most.
From a tech perspective, this shutdown highlights the brutal reality for digital media ventures trying to survive in this age. It’s adapt or die, unfortunately.
Voice TV’s closure is emblematic of broader political and economic trends. The crackdown on media is a troubling sign for democracy everywhere.
Or maybe it’s just business? Not every closure has to be a political statement. Sometimes ventures just fail.
Sure, businesses fail. But context matters, especially in a country with Thailand’s political history. This isn’t just about the bottom line.
As a local, I’ve watched Voice TV evolve over the years. It’s a sad moment, realizing that such a familiar voice will go silent.
The economic headwinds mentioned can’t be ignored. The media industry globally is facing a financial crunch, and unfortunately, Voice TV couldn’t weather the storm.
Everyone’s focusing on the closure, but what about the employees? A hundred talented individuals now have to find new opportunities. That’s the real tragedy.