KUCHING: The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) praised the Film Censorship Board (LPF) for expanding its film classifications to match the current media landscape.
Its chairman Kenny Ong said that the board’s move towards self-regulation in keeping ahead of the rapidly evolving times, is greatly welcome.
“These updated film classifications will empower audiences to make informed choices about their content consumption, and allow them to self-regulate according to their own needs and preferences.
“Additionally, they offer clear guidelines for protecting children and other vulnerable groups from viewing unsuitable material,” he said in a statement today (Feb 3).
He said the abundance of content from various sources makes it unrealistic to rely solely on state censorship to control what is disseminated.
“Instead, it is important for individuals and communities to take responsibility for self-regulation and ensure that the content they produce and consume aligns with their values and standards.
“However, this does not mean abandoning all forms of regulation, as there still needs to be a measure of accountability to prevent harm and ensure that basic ethical principles are upheld,” he said.
Ong stressed that a balance must be struck between individual freedom and collective responsibility, which is what Content Forum advocates for.
“We appreciate the board’s efforts in supporting our goal of encouraging greater self-regulation among the public and local content creators and look forward to more initiatives that will ensure a dynamic, safe, and inclusive content landscape in Malaysia,” he said.
Earlier, the Home Ministry, through LPF, set five new film classifications which took effect on Feb 1.
Under the new classification, there are namely, ‘U’ for viewers of all ages; ’P12’ (parental guidance required for those below 12); ’13’ (for viewers aged 13 and above); ‘16’ (for viewers aged 16 and above); and ‘18’ (for viewers aged 18 and above).
Content Forum is an independent self-regulatory industry body registered under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and designated by the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 98) to oversee and promote self-regulation of content over the electronic networked medium.
