MTV will launch a charity show entitled "MTV Asia Aid" at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand today to raise donations for the tsunami victims in the Southeast Asia through the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

Artists from around the world have pledged their support and the event will feature live performances by Alicia Keys, Kelly Clarkson, Hoobastank and Good Charlotte from the United States, Asha Bhosle from India, Bird Thongchai McIntyre and Tata Young from Thailand, Jay Chou from China's Taiwan Province, Namie Amuro from Japan, Simple Plan from Canada, Siti Nurhaliza from Malaysia and Slank from Indonesia.

International superstar Jennifer Lopez will contribute a pre-recorded performance.

In addition to airing on all MTV channels around the world, MTV Asia Aid is being broadcast free globally to maximize distribution and help generate as many donations as possible for primary recipient UNICEF, as well as additional regional charities.

"The MTV Asia Aid event is about empowering viewers everywhere to continue supporting the relief efforts. MTV has a role to play in these efforts based on our unique connection with young people globally," said Frank Brown, president of MTV Networks Asia Pacific.

The majority of the donations raised will be handed to UNICEF, with funds in Thailand going to the "Rajaprajanugroh Foundation under the Royal Patronage" and "The Government House -- Disaster Relief Fund." Some of the cash will go to India's Prime Minister's Relief Fund.

"MTV Asia Aid will help maintain the world's attention on the devastation and loss that the tsunami has caused for millions of people," said Richard Bridle, deputy regional director, UNICEF.

"The continued support of the world community will play an ever growing role as families, local communities, and governments come together to bring relief to those affected, and in the long term reconstruction effort."

CNN International will also support the event with specially created shows, highlighting the need for continued support of the relief efforts.

(China Daily February 3, 2005)