MTV Networks Asia will reposition the annual MTV Asia Awards into a global benefit, in support of the recovery efforts taking place in Asia, a vital part of MTV Networks' wider global response to the aftermath of the tsunami. The event, now to be known as MTV Asia Aid, is to still take place at IMPACT Arena in Bangkok on February 3, 2005, it was announced today by Bill Roedy, President, MTV Networks International and Frank Brown, President, MTV Networks Asia Pacific.

"MTV International is uniquely positioned to help in this recovery. The Asia Aid benefit is part of MTV Networks' wider global response, utilizing all of our resources, including our global network, to add to the worldwide response," said Roedy. MTV's global network includes 42 channels reaching over 1 billion people - including over 450 million across Asia.

"MTV Asia Aid will be the initial focus of MTV Networks Asia's ongoing support of the recovery efforts. MTV Asia Aid will reflect the resilience and the spirit of the people of Asia as we come together to rebuild and look towards the future," Brown said.

MTV Networks Asia has partnered with UNICEF to make them the major recipient of funds collected from the event. Over one third of those affected were children and young people, who are also amongst the most vulnerable groups in the tsunami. UNICEF -- which has a strong on the ground presence in the regions affected -- is especially well positioned to provide urgent and sustainable help to those who need it most.

"The kind of attention that MTV can bring to the devastation faced by the millions of people affected by the tsunami is invaluable," said UNICEF Communications Director Sharad Sapra. "It is important now, and it will become even more important in the future as the world community joins hands with governments, local communities and families to begin the long and arduous process of reconstruction and recovery."

Specific details about MTV Asia Aid, the artists that will perform at the event, the fund raising mechanisms and corporate partnerships in support of the event will be announced shortly.

There will still be MTV Asia Awards 2005 programming on MTV Asia channels, announcing the categories and winners. Details of the program broadcast times will continue to be promoted on-air and online across the region.