The news was announced during a press conference at the Science Centre Singapore on June 1 when the new Hi-5 team was also introduced.

Mr Ron Tan, managing director of Sheares Asia Production, which owns the licensing and merchandising rights of Hi-5 in Asia, says: 'Singapore is the key market for Hi-5. This is why it was chosen as the venue for Hi-5 Surprise! Live Tour 2009.

'In view of the live show to be held in September, it is timely for the new television series to be launched in June,' he adds.

Read the full report in Wednesday's edition of The Straits Times' LIFE!.