The Mediacorp’s call-for-proposals for PSB Contestable Funds Scheme is now open. Visit their website for more information.
Each year, commissioning editors of PCFS content will seek fresh and innovative content through open calls for proposals.
Independent evaluators will assess the proposals on the basis of how PSB values are represented, relevance to the Singapore audience, creative merits (quality, innovation/creativity in storytelling) and track record of the production company involved.
Through the PCFS, innovative formats and fresh subject matter have been introduced. Examples include Channel 5’s
Cradle of Life, Channel 8’s
My Grand Partner and
Suria’s Refleksi.
On 5 November 2013, StarHub became the first pay-TV operator to come onboard this scheme. Its mandate is to commission and produce original PSB programmes which will air on its pay-TV and Internet television platforms, and be made available to subscribers and non-subscribers alike.
The increased funding for PSB programmes is channeled to keys areas of production that affect perceptible differences in production quality, but are currently underfunded. These key areas include (but are not limited to):
- Story planning and scriptwriting
- Research
- Adequate filming and post production days
- Imaging, make-up and visual effects
- Music
Producers are also encouraged to access potential story ideas and talent from other disciplines. Some examples include optioning rights from published local literary works or stage productions to adapt into compelling productions, tapping on writing talents from other fields such as playwrights and so forth.
To better ensure innovative and quality PSB content, IMDA has also put in place a robust performance management framework with performance targets that measure the reach of PSB platforms, PSB viewership, as well as public/government stakeholder satisfaction with PSB.
Find out more here: