Film Makers To Carry Out Own Censorship On Movies

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 22 (Bernama) -- Local movie producers will be allowed to carry out their own censorship on movies or dramas that they produce said Home Ministry secretary-general Mahmood Adam. According to Mahmood, they (film makers) can themselves evaluate whether their movies can be aired or not and would be fully responsible for screening, including scenes deemed offensive or sexual contents. Speaking to reporters after opening a seminar on the Roadmap and Censorship of Films in Malaysia here Wednesday, Mahmood said the Home Ministry and related agencies would only act as advisers and observers to the film industry. He said the decision was made because the ministry was to be more liberal and not curtail the process of the film producing industry which involves huge capital. "However, viewing guidance and notice from the Ministry, Film Control Board, Department of Islamic Advancement of Malaysia (JAKIM) and Film Censor Board will be displayed on the screen to inform viewers of the contents," he said. By doing so, viewers can judge and evaluate the movies by themselves, and determine whether there are negative elements or not, he said. Meanwhile, film makers Yusof Haslam and David Teo were honoured with Special Awards in recognition of their contributions towards the growth of the film industry in the country. -- BERNAMA Malaysia