RTM has been asked to increase the number of live matches from the current 41 at the World Cup finals in Russia.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the national broadcaster is in the process of sorting out the details.

“As of now, we have managed to get 41 matches, but at the same time, I have ordered RTM to try and negotiate for more matches.

“We will see if we can get more, or where we can improve on the pricing,” he said during the ministry’s  buka puasa in Putrajaya.

Maxis Berhad is the main sponsor for the global football event which will amount to RM30 million.

He said that on Tuesday he will be making a special announcement concerning the sponsors at the World Cup press conference.

“All can say for now is because people are pushing me is that Maxis is the main sponsor.

“We have received sponsors, we will announce the list, and exact amount and total amount that has been sponsored.”

Gobind has also assured football fans that RTM will be broadcasting the opening and final matches live.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said private companies will sponsor the RM30 million needed to broadcast the 2018 World Cup.

Lim said the federal government would not have to spend a single sen to broadcast the matches.

“We have already obtained sponsorships from private companies totalling RM30 million, and they will be able to get their returns by having their advertisements aired during the broadcasts.

“Every viewer will be able to save at least RM100, because we have to pay about RM100 if we want to see the matches on satellite television,” he said.

RTM is preparing to broadcast 27 live matches and 14 delayed broadcasts throughout the month-long tournament. – June 8, 2018.