Dialog Telecom Ltd, in partnership with Reuters news service has launched a novel service where subscribers get breaking news alerts on Dialog mobile phones. As part of the offered service, Reuters will provide up to the minute breaking news stories covering Sri Lanka and Dialog, will deliver it via sms to its subscriber network.
So far this service is offered free, and assume with time Dialog will include this into its paid services sector. Interested Dialog subscribers are required to type NEWS and send to 7777 for registration. Once you receive a confirmation, you're just a sms away from any breaking news event in Sri Lanka.
Unlike the some what biased content of BBC, Reuters in their reportage is still considered a trusted source, and is considered a network providing timely, unbiased and reliable news and information.
However, given the current situation where there is question on the authenticity and neutrality of the content of both the State and Private electronic media in Sri Lanka, such service can entice ordinary citizens to not only be informed but also to react in a more timely and organized manner.
I see this service with a tremendous amount of potential. Not only for covering breaking news alerts but also this service can be used as a platform for sharing information and advice on many fields and sectors. Especially in areas of Disaster alert and response and also public/ social mobilizing, this kind of service can play a greater role.
Soon after registering, I got my first alert, informing me of SLAF carrying out a bombing sortie against suspected LTTE positions in Thoppigala area. Not that it will help me to re-arrange my travel plans, or may be to re-think about the investment portfolio of my employer, it made me realize the current state of war that we are in and lured me to seek more details of the latest developments in the military operation to capture Thoppigala.
In a state where both the government and the LTTE are doing equal best attempt to keep the ordinary people in the dark, this service will enable any one with a Dialog connection to access Reuters, thus removing the barrier of having Internet access to read international wire service, let alone access to breaking news.
Given the fact that current MR governments close and cozy link with Dialog Telecom (+MTN Malaysia) , i see no obstacle in latter continuing this service in the coming future. but then as with any other 'for profit' business venture, both Dialog and Reuters have to see the financial viability of this , to see things through.
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