PUTRAJAYA: New guidelines by the National Censorship Board will allow movie producers more flexibility and freedom, without having to compromise on issues related to security, racial and religious harmony and socio-cultural values.
Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Mahmood Adam said a draft has been prepared and was being studied by film producers and script writers for their views and suggestions on how the new guidelines should be shaped.
“What is special is that the guidelines are drawn with the participation of industry players, authorities and other interested parties.
“We are engaging in this open concept. This is not a rule set by the ministry and for others to follow. This is a set of rules with ideas from stake holders.
“However, we expect them to abide by the rules, because they are the ones who had a hand in laying them down,” Mahmood told reporters after a dialogue session with players in the entertainment industry, including film producers and script writers.
He said the guidelines revolved around security and public order, religion, and socio-cultural and ethics values.
For example, Mahmood said, while it would not be an outright “no-no” for film producers to have a story-line based on religion, it should not portray one religion as better than the other.
“Crime and criminals can be highlighted, but not in a way that will encourage the audience to consider committing a crime.
“Likewise, some harsh language may help enhance the dialogue of a film, but not extreme profanity and vulgarity,” he said.
Mahmood added that the film producers and script writers had about a month to study the draft guidelines, after which another meeting would be convened for their feedback and ideas.
“Today’s landscape and geo-politics have changed tremendously since the present guidelines were introduced 16 years ago.
“We need new ones that suit today’s environment and the needs of a more demanding audience,” he said.
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