Regulating streaming platforms stifles artistic expression, says Harith Iskander

 

Actor-comedian Harith Iskandar says censorship of streaming platforms will hinder the growth of the local film industry. (Unsplash pic)

PETALING JAYA: The government should resist pressure to regulate streaming platforms, as doing so could hinder the development and global appeal of the Malaysian film industry, says comedian and actor Harith Iskander.

He said regulating streaming platforms would create a conservative landscape that stifles artistic expression and limits exploration into sensitive and controversial topics.

“Film has always served as a medium for addressing important social issues, challenging societal norms, and initiating critical conversations,” Harith told FMT.

Harith Iskander.

“When artists refrain from tackling these topics due to fear of backlash or censorship, it restricts the potential for thought-provoking and impactful storytelling.

“This limitation can hinder the growth of the local film industry, which relies on pushing boundaries and engaging both domestic and international audiences,” he said.

Last month, home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail expressed his willingness to allow the Film Censorship Board to discuss with the communications ministry the possibility of regulating streaming platforms such as Netflix.

He was responding to PAS MP Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, who had called for action against platforms that broadcast Islamophobic content, as well as shows that involve transgenders and portray lesbian, gay and bisexual relationships.

However, Harith said such regulation would result in creators exercising self-censorship by altering their content to dodge controversies and avoid running afoul of regulations.

“As a consequence, audiences may lose interest and turn to other sources for more diverse and innovative content,” he said.

Brenda Danker.

Meanwhile, Freedom Film Network co-founder Brenda Danker warned the government not to adopt a “nanny state” approach, saying it would not be effective or feasible for the authorities to regulate content given the seamless nature of the digital world.

She said virtual private networks (VPNs) and torrenting sites make censorship an ineffective form of content control.

Using a VPN can obscure your location and identity, enabling access to geo-restricted streaming content, while torrenting sites may offer a way to download and share media files freely without the presence of regulatory authorities.

Hence, she said the responsibility should be shared among all stakeholders, including content creators and the industry, as well as parents and educators.

“Instead of trying to impose more restrictions or tightening their control to regulate content, the state should move towards self-regulation and classification of content.

“It should allow its adult citizens to grow in maturity and critically exercise their freedom of choice and expression,” she said. - FMT