New film ratings to protect under-18 viewers, provide ‘freedom’ for others

 

Home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail hopes the new classifications will serve as a guide and reference for local film producers and directors, and help support creativity in the industry.

PETALING JAYA: Home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has announced that five film classifications will take effect from today.

The five classifications are U (for all viewers), P12 (parental guidance required for those under 12), 13 (viewers aged 13 and above), 16 (viewers aged 16 and above) and 18 (viewers aged 18 and above).

Previously, there were three classifications – U, P13 and P18.

Saifuddin said the classifications under the Film Censorship Board (LPF), which is under the purview of the ministry, will protect children and adolescents under the age of 18 from being exposed to inappropriate content, while also preserving the freedom of those above 18 to enjoy the films of their choice.

“The film classifications are intended to have a positive effect on standardising and improving the rating system of films in Malaysia,” he said in a statement today.

Saifuddin said he hoped the classifications can be used as a guide and reference by local film producers and directors, and can help support the growth of creativity in the film and broadcasting industry without violating censorship guidelines. - FMT