MUMBAI : Disney has extended the reach of its pre school channel Playhouse Disney in Asia. The broadcaster has announced that the channel has been launched on Malaysia's multi-channel TV operator Astro.
 

Playhouse Disney is already available in Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and Indonesia. Disney meanwhile is firming plans for bringing its channels into India. it had recently appointed Rajat Jain as the person to head its India operations. Jain currently serves as Max executive VP. Next month he joins Disney.

Talking about the new Malaysia launch Walt Disney Television International (Southeast Asia/Korea) MD Raymund Miranda, added, "The rapid expansion of Playhouse Disney Channel in Asia provides ample evidence that the preschool audience is an important and under-served segment of the pay-TV market in the region. The Playhouse Disney brand recognised that need as early as 1999 and continues to remain the leader in providing fun and imaginative learning to this audience.

"The launch of Playhouse Disney Channel in our region completes the evolution of this brand from a block that was introduced in 2000 to a stand alone channel today. "

Playhouse Disney Channel invites preschool children into a world of discovery, creative play and fun learning. Catering to kids two to five years old, their parents and caregivers, the commercial-free channel provides a safe, entertaining TV environment.

The aim is that kids enjoy the programming while parents are assured that their children are learning from award-winning programming based on the Whole Child Curriculum. The curriculum aspires to stimulate thinking skills, develop motor skills, impart early academic learning, instill moral and social lessons and encourage creativity and artistic expression.