PUTRAJAYA – The Film Censorship Board (LPF) has clarified that its authority in implementing content censorship is limited to films and publicity materials shown through conventional channels such as cinemas and television.
In a statement to Sinar, LPF said this is in line with provisions under the Film Censorship Act 2002 [Act 620] and the Film Censorship Guidelines (GPPF) 2024.
“This censorship covers films and film publicity materials that are broadcast, exhibited, distributed, screened or transmitted physically (conventionally), except for matters stated under Section 2 of Act 620, including films shown via the internet or intranet,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, LPF noted that screenings involving digital content fall under the jurisdiction of other agencies and are subject to different legal provisions and content codes.
“Screenings involving digital content fall under the jurisdiction of different agencies, each governed by their respective acts and content codes,” the statement added.
LPF also explained that in cases of non-compliance with relevant laws or content codes, or if complaints are received regarding digital content, the relevant agencies may take action against parties that violate established regulations.
For content within its jurisdiction, LPF said evaluations are conducted comprehensively based on the GPPF 2024, relevant circulars on film viewing and censorship, as well as the censorship manuals in use.
The evaluation process involves scrutiny of various aspects, including storyline, genre, theme, scenes, dialogue, narrative, sound effects, sign language, symbols and implicit messages contained in a work.
Decisions on content modification are made based on the assigned viewing classification - U, P12, 13, 16 or 18. Content found to significantly breach the guidelines may be subject to restrictions.
“Among the censorship methods applied are blurring visuals, muting dialogue, removing subtitles or cutting scenes, depending on the severity of the violation,” LPF said.
According to the board, conventional censorship remains an important first line of protection for audiences, but the digital media environment requires different regulatory mechanisms in line with the respective jurisdictions of relevant agencies.