About Oli 96.8FM
Oli 96.8FM is Singapore’s only full-service Tamil-language radio station, owned by Mediacorp. It serves the Indian community with a mix of Tamil songs, regional Indian hits, news, lifestyle features, and infotainment. The station broadcasts on 96.8 MHz FM and streams online via MeListen.
History of Oli 96.8FM
- 1936: Originated under the British Malaya Broadcasting Corporation with Tamil programming.
- 1951: Became part of the Red Network, focusing on Tamil and Chinese dialects.
- 1967: Began FM broadcasts on 96.8 MHz.
- 1982: Rebranded as Radio 4, introducing interactive chat shows.
- 1991–2001: Operated as Olikkalanjiam 96.8FM.
- 2001: Became a 24-hour fully manned station, recognized internationally for community service.
- 2014: Rebranded with a new logo and programming strategy.
Programming and Community Role
Oli 96.8FM offers Tamil music, infotainment, and lifestyle features. It operates 24 hours a day and engages listeners through community fundraising, cultural events, and digital streaming platforms.
Evolution of Radio in Singapore
Radio in Singapore began in the 1930s as a multilingual service. By the 1960s, FM broadcasting improved sound quality and reach, with stations specializing in different languages. In the digital era, radio embraced online streaming and podcasts. Today, platforms like MeListen integrate radio with on-demand shows, podcasts, and cross-media synergy with TV channels such as Vasantham.