TV association: 'Less ghost stories, more gritty takes on corruption, politics'

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was urged to reform the creative industry and change the Film Censorship guidelines policy so that producers are less constrained when producing films or dramas that touch on corrupt activities and misuse of power in politics.

According to Television Association of Malaysia (PTVM) president Jurey Latiff Rosli, the Madani government should set its own clear pattern and direction by reducing bureaucratic restrictions if it wants to create a conducive creative industry.

For Jurey, the move would also be in line with the government's desire to fight corruption in the country.

Television Association of Malaysia president Jurey Latiff Rosli

"Anwar wants to fight corruption but the television stations don’t dare to broadcast dramas related to corruption. If the prime minister wants to fight corruption, there must be an open policy. Let's walk the talk, no more lip service.

"Our association has high hopes for the prime minister in reforming the creative industry. Be a caring government that listens to criticism and upholds the trust given in helping the people," Jurey told in an interview with Malaysiakini.

"Right now, we are busy producing love stories, ghost stories and divorce stories. There are no stories of ministers, police officers or big gangsters and bribes. The scenario is much different and not as daring as films like in India," he said.

‘Ease censorship policies’

Under the Film Censorship Guidelines, the Public Safety and Order section, among other things, mentions that artistes need to take into account the appropriateness of a film and cannot satirise and make fun of the ruling leader or government to the point of causing tension in the country.

Jurey explained that due to regulatory bodies such as the Film Censorship Board which monitors the Film Censorship Guidelines Policy, most producers do not dare to come forward with stories about the symptoms of corruption.

He said that no one is brave enough because producers fear the work will be banned from being screened.

Earlier this year, a biopic about Anwar's own challenges en route to the premiership was produced, titled Anwar: The Untold Story.

"I think that as long as I have been a producer, there has not been a film or drama that shows the abuse of power among politicians and high-ranking uniformed bodies, the only ones that exist are probably small fries.

"The fact is, there is an unseen hand that does not allow it," claimed Jurey in calling for a change to the bureaucratic restrictions.

"Therefore, the Madani government needs to change this. All film producers have to follow these guidelines. In addition, publishers also need to comply with the guidelines imposed by the police and military. Even religious content needs to follow the guidelines issued by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia.

"If they do not obey any of the policies, then their work cannot be shown or have to be cut, or worse, it could be banned," Jurey said. - Mkini