Did not reach all Key Performance Indicators
Teo added that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are set for SPH Media to track reach and engagement across all communities, including specific targets for vernacular outlets, youth and digital reach.SPH Media must also report to MCI regularly on their performance in those areas and comply with the relevant audits to ensure oversight of how funds are spent, as well as ownership and accountability of public service media outcomes.
Teo said that the funding disbursed has been "put to good use" as SPH Media has been strengthening its digital systems to improve its outreach in line with other global publications.
She said they still have a "considerable catch-up" to do.
She acknowledged that SPH Media "maintained its overall reach" and achieved a "modest increase" in its digital subscriptions.
However, it did not meet all its KPIs on digital reach, youth reach, vernacular reach and average time spent on its websites and applications.