Introduce multi-lingual channel to improve image of Islam: PTV official

Islamabad, Oct.1 (ANI): An official of Pakistan's national broadcaster PTV has called on the federal government to use the substantial aid at its disposal to improve the image of Islam which has been badly tarnished by the militants.

In an opinion piece for The Nation, Burhanuddin Hasan, Director (News) PTV, says improving the image of Islam can only be achieved through the launch of a multi-lingual satellite TV channel for the Muslim world.

He suggests that this goal can be achieved mainly through the OIC, which represents over 50 Muslim countries.

"The Muslim world is passing through turbulent times since the advent of this decade at the hands of the militants who have distorted the image of Islam.... Pakistan and Afghanistan are the greatest sufferers since both are relentlessly fighting against the terrorists at the cost of human lives, their peace and prosperity. The US that is also threatened by this wave of terror has been helping Pakistan and Afghanistan to get out of this mess," Hasan claims.

He says that the multi-lingual channel should be broadcast in both Urdu and English, and engage viewers in a meaningful discourse on all aspects of Islamic thought. It should act as an interface between Muslims and non-Muslims to remove misconceptions about Islamic ideology.

Hasan further says that it is imperative for Pakistan to present to the world a Muslim culture that is both vibrant and multi-faceted. The channel should telecast cultural programs, documentaries, news and analytical programs from the perspective of the Muslim world, to break the monopoly of the western media.

The channel also promote trade and commerce among the Muslim world through comprehensive business programs and stock market eports. (ANI)