Kuala Lumpur:18-rated films in Malaysia may now be screened without cuts, provided that strict age-based classification is enforced, as announced by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo highlighted a shift in the approach to film censorship, moving from content cuts to classifying films by age suitability under the new Film Censorship Guidelines (GPPF) 2024. These guidelines emphasize that only individuals aged 18 and above may watch 18-rated films. However, she clarified that age classification is not a free pass to screen any content without restrictions.
Teo noted that the Film Censorship Board (LPF) under the Home Ministry will still assess films based on four critical aspects public safety and order, religion, socio-culture, and decency and morality. This statement was made during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat in response to Dr. Siti Mastura Muhammad's inquiry regarding the rationale behind no longer censoring films classified 18 and above.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed that content breaching censorship guidelines, particularly material that could disrupt social harmony, remains subject to suitable action. She emphasized that the measures under the Film Censorship Act 2002 and GPPF 2024 aim to balance societal protection with respect for the integrity of local works.
Teo further elaborated on the objectives of age classification, which are to enable adults to make informed viewing choices, to protect children and teenagers from unsuitable content, and to place the responsibility of guidance on parents. She referenced the local film "Tiger Stripes" to illustrate the policy change's rationale, noting the film's international recognition despite its edited domestic release.
Additionally, Teo urged filmmakers to utilize FINAS's National Creative Production Fund (CITRA) to foster local works that promote unity. This encouragement came in response to a query from RSN Rayer on initiatives for promoting harmony and national unity through film.