MUMBAI: Cartoon Network will launch the first high-definition kids’ entertainment channel in South East Asia on 20 January.

The first market to switch to HD is the Philippines, with Cartoon Network HD broadcast on the leading platform, SKYcable. The launch marks the first time an HD kids’ channel will be included in a premium HD subscriber pack in the region.

Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific senior vice president and GM Sunny Saha said, “HD is the future of television, and with the launch of Cartoon Network HD, kids across South East Asia can now enjoy cinema-quality entertainment from the comfort of their own homes. Cartoon Network HD is just one more way that we animate kids’ lives, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with SKYcable, an industry trailblazer in the Philippines, to deliver such an awesome HD destination.”

Cartoon Network HD’s programming line-up will feature shows such as The Amazing World of Gumball, Tom & Jerry, The Looney Tunes Show and Chowder. It will also premiere TV specials including the first CG-animated movie from the popular Ben 10 series, Ben 10: Destroy All Aliens, in March.

Skycable Corporation head - program packaging and merchandising Claudia G Suarez said, “Cartoon Network is a big part of many Filipino families. Its brand of humor and fun can only get better with the addition of its new, ground-breaking HD channel, Cartoon Network HD.”

Cartoon Network HD will be broadcast on SKYcable’s channel 178.