FROM today, television addicts can enjoy a slew of eclectic offerings from Asia and beyond on StarHub's video- on-demand (VOD) service.

The cable-TV provider rolled out Singapore's first VOD three years ago, but its content was limited to movies.

Its revamped programming, however, comprises largely Asian fare, such as Hong Kong drama serials, Korean tear-jerkers and Taiwanese idol dramas.

It also boasts perennial Western faves like CSI and Numb3rs.

This differentiates StarHub from its rival, SingTel's mio TV.

The latter banks on American hits such as Gossip Girl and Lost, thanks to its deals with Disney- ABC International, Twentieth Century Fox and Warner Bros International.

StarHub is leveraging on content from Hong Kong's TVB International, Taiwan's Formosa Television, and American channels CBS and HBO.

In addition, blockbuster movies will be screened as early as three months after their theatrical release.

"We have a good spread of programmes for our diverse customer group," said Mr Patrick Lim, head of StarHub's cable- TV services.

In response, mio TV says it will challenge StarHub's Asian content. Mr Quek Peck Leng, executive vice-president (consumer) from SingTel, told my paper:

"We will soon be announcing more on-demand programming from Asia."

For now, TV fans are delighted to hear of more StarHub viewing options.

Ms Theresa Tang, a cable subscriber and a secretary in her 30s, catches repeats of her favourite Hong Kong and Korean dramas, sometimes as late as 1am.

"Now, it's great to know I can be in control of what I want to watch, and when," she said.

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