In the blink of an eye, we are approaching the 30th year milestone of the launch of AsiaSat 1 in 1990. Once deployed at 105.5°E, AsiaSat 1 was a testament to the pioneering spirit that brought satellite television to Asia. The satellite helped transform the orbital location into one of the world’s best video neighbourhoods, where it continues to be sustained by AsiaSat 3S, and now AsiaSat 7.
AsiaSat took the first step to revolutionise digital satellite broadcasting in Asia with the launch of AsiaSat 2 in 1995. With these two pioneering satellites, Asia Satellite Telecommunications Holdings Limited was successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 1996 and laid the foundation for the company’s sustainable growth. After 30 years of diligent efforts at mastering the operations of geostationary satellites, AsiaSat, working with our partners and customers has come to own seven in-orbit satellites operating from seven orbital locations.
As we celebrate the progress made by our company, we are thankful to the Board and our predecessors not only for their leadership, vision and foresight but their ceaseless drive for innovation. Although the intervening years have not been without challenges, the company has been able to march forward with passion and determination to further our capabilities both in space and on the ground including our best-in-class Tai Po Earth Station, which came into operation in 2004. I am proud to say that AsiaSat has been ranked among the world’s top teleport operators for the 13th consecutive year!
Looking into the future, we will continue to explore and identify business opportunities in satellite communications by swiftly adapting to changes in this fast moving world while upholding the pioneering spirit of our founders. With rapid satellite technological development, disruptive terrestrial infrastructure deployment and a paradigm shift in consumers’ behaviour, it is our ability to embrace change and innovation that will set us apart from the competition. We will continue to develop creative and flexible technical and business solutions to meet and exceed customer expectations, while continuing to contribute to the Asia-Pacific region, and to our society and community as a responsible organisation that operates seamlessly across borders.
While our success deserves recognition and celebration, it is important to express thanks to our employees, past and present, for their hard work, determination and strong belief in the vision of the company. Their courage to take calculated risks and positive response to challenges, some of which may appear monumental at times, have enabled AsiaSat to prosper and grow.
I also want to recognise our customers, partners and regulators who have supported AsiaSat over the past 30 years. With the guidance and support of all our stakeholders, I am confident together we will reach new heights, overcome all hurdles and help maintain AsiaSat’s position as an industry leader in the years to come.
Sincerely,
Roger Tong
CEO
Read More:
AsiaSat, Making History in Asia's Satellite Industry