SINGAPORE : MediaCorp's Channel U will offer a new mix of programmes during prime time to reinforce its position as the entertainment channel for the new generation and young working adults.

From March 29, viewers can enjoy non-stop entertainment on weekdays between 8pm and 10pm, with the best of acquired programmes from the region and quality local productions.

Viewers will be treated to popular gameshow "Viking" and long-running infotainment "Cocorico" from Japan, as well as acclaimed infotainment "All Pass" and lighthearted variety "Sunday Splendid Showtime" from Taiwan.

Ongoing Taiwan variety programmes "Million Singer" and "Diamond Club" will also be extended beyond the current one-hour slot.

Local productions include a new variety gameshow "Wonder Chef" which debuts on April 6. Hosted by comedian Mark Lee, viewers will see contestants turn simple fare like instant noodles into culinary treats with their own creative recipes.

With the new programming grid, Channel U will have a daily news bulletin at 11pm, which is a second telecast of the 10pm News on Channel 8.

Its weekend news bulletin "News Club" which currently airs at 7pm will be replaced by current affairs programmes "Money Week" and "World This Week" from April 3.

Channel U said that by consolidating resources, the Chinese news team will be able to push for stronger content to serve the public.

It added it will also continue to fine-tune its programming mix based on feedback from viewers and surveys conducted on viewing habits.

According to the Nielsen Media Index 2009 survey, Channel U is one of the three most watched terrestrial channels together with Channel 8 and 5, garnering more than 1.2 million viewers daily, up from 1.1 million in 2008.

- CNA/il

Channel News Asia