KUALA LUMPUR (June 24): Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd announced today that it will be bringing Netflix's streaming services to Astro's platform, confirming a report by The Edge yesterday that the partnership between the two groups would be unveiled this week.
In a statement, Astro said its customers will soon be able to enjoy seamless access to Netflix on their connected Ultra Boxes, first at launch, and on connected Ulti Boxes in the coming months.
"With this partnership, Astro and Netflix customers in Malaysia can enjoy greater convenience by having Netflix with their Astro subscription, providing easy access for payment in a single bill, at the best value," it added.
Astro chief executive officer Henry Tan said its partnership with Neftlix consolidates its position as a leading provider of entertainment services in the country.
"Our partnership with Netflix consolidates Astro's position as the No 1 entertainment destination for Malaysians by offering the best streaming services alongside our own best-loved originals, vernacular signatures, live sports and local blockbuster movies. Our announcements to date will extend our leadership in delivering the best entertainment experience to Malaysians," said Tan.
Netflix vice president for business development (APAC) Tony Zameczkowski said he is thrilled with its partnership with Astro.
"From Hollywood films like Army of the Dead, to top series like La Casa de Papel from Spain, Lupin from France, and great Korean dramas like Vincenzo, we believe that great stories can come from anywhere and be loved everywhere. I'm thrilled that our partnership with Astro allows us to bring a world-class multi-device entertainment experience to more Malaysians," he said.
This latest partnership comes hot on the heels of Astro's partnership with the Walt Disney Co to launch the Disney+ Hotstar streaming platform in Malaysia earlier this month.
Additionally, Astro also launched its stand-alone subscription-based and advertising-supported streaming service, sooka, earlier this month. Astro also has some content from streaming players the US' HBO Go and China's iQIYI on its platform.
Shares in Astro were trading down 0.85% or a sen lower to RM1.17 at 3pm, valuing the group at RM6.1 billion.