Radio Broadcasting
The history of radio broadcasting in Malta is a fascinating journey that dates back to the early 20th century. The origins of radio broadcasting in Malta can be traced back to 1935, with the establishment of a cable-radio system.
The history of radio broadcasting in Malta is a fascinating journey that dates back to the early 20th century. The origins of radio broadcasting in Malta can be traced back to 1935, with the establishment of a cable-radio system.
The first radio broadcast in Malta was transmitted from the Naval Wireless Station at Rinella in 1933. In 1934, an agreement was reached between the Government of Malta and the Rediffusion Group of Companies to set up a sound wired system in Malta and Gozo.
On November 11, 1935, the Broadcast Relay (Service) Malta Ltd., later renamed to Rediffusion Malta Ltd., inaugurated its broadcasting services. This marked the official launch of the Rediffusion Cable Radio Service. The aim of this service was to counter Fascist propaganda from Italy.
In the late sixties, Rediffusion Malta conducted several test transmissions with the aim of setting up a radio station. However, the radio station never materialized, possibly due to a conflict of interest with the cable radio system which the same company was utilizing.
Regular wireless radio transmissions in Maltese started on January 8, 1973, by the Malta Broadcasting Authority on 999 kHz Medium Wave (AM). It was called "Radju ta’ Malta". This frequency is still in use by Radio Malta.
In 1975, when Xandir Malta was set up, the Cable Radio system, no longer belonging to Rediffusion, and Radio Malta, became one entity with a separate identity. Radio Malta started transmitting on FM 93.7 MHz when the British Forces Broadcasting Services (BFBS Malta) closed down on March 31, 1979, with the departure of British Services from the Maltese Islands.
The cable radio system was officially closed down on January 31, 1989, and its programs continued on as a wireless service on MW 999 kHz. Consequently, many talented and experienced broadcasters were now working solely for Radio Malta.
The history of radio broadcasting in Malta is a testament to the country’s resilience and adaptability. From its humble beginnings in the 1930s to its modern-day status as a hub for diverse radio programming, Malta’s radio broadcasting history is a rich tapestry of technological advancement and cultural evolution. Today, listeners in Malta can enjoy a wide variety of radio stations, reflecting the diverse interests and tastes of the Maltese population.