In March, SBS launched SBS Arabic24, a 24/7 digital radio channel and online hub delivering the latest Australian and international news, information and analysis to Arabic-speaking Australians. In the first week, the station was the most listened to SBS Radio station online and the second most popular through the SBS Radio App.
SBS Director of Audio and Language Services Mandi Wicks said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the growth of SBS Arabic24 since the station launched, especially online and via social platforms. We are excited to be extending our locally produced and hosted content offering, so that Arabic-speaking Australians have access to more in-depth coverage of the local and global issues relevant to them.”
SBS Radio has appointed Suha Najjar as the voice of ‘Al Bayt Baytak’ meaning ‘feel at home’. Suha brings with her a wealth of experience in the creative broadcast and edutainment industry as a producer, writer and presenter. Prior to joining SBS, Suha was a Senior Producer on the Arabic version of Entertainment Tonight in the Middle East.
Suha helped to establish the first community radio production unit in Jordan, which went on to become the country’s leading radio station, giving a voice to the marginalised with a special focus on youth and women. She was the first producer and presenter of ‘The Selector Program’ in Jordan, broadcasting in 30 countries.
SBS Arabic24 Executive Producer Marie Myssy said: “The Arabic-speaking community in Australia is growing rapidly and the new program will be an important resource for our community. Many new migrants are arriving in Australia from conflict zones, and are now facing the challenge of settling in Australia, but having access to a news and information service and friendly voice in their language, will play an important role in their lives.”
The 24 hour service features Australian and international programs including the locally produced and hosted Breakfast and Drive programs, the best in Arabic pop, and content from the BBC World Service’s highly respected BBC Arabic service.
SBS Arabic24 is a 12 month pilot and will be reviewed in 2017.
‘Al Bayt Baytak’ will launch on SBS Arabic24 at 8.00am on 30 May 2016 on digital radio (DAB+), the SBS Radio App and online at sbs.com.au/arabic24.
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