Subscription Television Programme Code

=PREAMBLE = 1 Television  content,  regardless  of  the  delivery  platform,  exerts  a  strong  influence on the community as a medium for entertainment, information and education. Because of its impact,  the  programmes  on  Television  must  at  all  times  maintain  a  standard  that  is acceptable to viewers. 2 The  Media  Development  Authority  of  Singapore  ("the  MDA")  is  empowered  to issue,  and  from  time  to  time,  review  codes  of  practice  relating  to  the  standards  of broadcast or broadcast-like programmes. This Subscription Television Programme Code (“the Code")  seeks  to  ensure  that  nothing  is  included  in  the  programmes  of  any Subscription  Television  service  which  is  against  public  interest  or  order,  or  national harmony, or which offends good taste and decency. The MDA is also empowered under the Broadcasting Act (Cap 28) to impose sanctions, including the imposition of financial penalties, on any broadcaster who contravenes the Code.  3  Subscription  Television  programme  services  are  intended  or  available  for reception  by  the  public,  on  payment,  whether  periodically  or  otherwise.   A  major distinctive feature of Subscription Television is the direct contractual relationship between the service provider and the subscriber.  This voluntary relationship between the service provider  and  the  subscriber  provides  the  latter  with  freedom  of  choice  along  with  the capability  and  responsibility  to  select  the  channels  they  wish  to  receive. Within this context it enhances viewing options and complements free to air services. 4 The  Code  outlines  the  general  standards  to  be  observed  for  Subscription Television services in Singapore, and is only concerned with channels offering scheduled programming. Even though the responsibility of channel selection lies with subscribers, they do  not  have  total  control  of  the  programmes  offered  by  the  channels. As such, service providers still have a responsibility to ensure that the programmes they offer are within acceptable  standards. Pay-per-view (PPV)  services  that  are  pegged  to  a  fixed schedule are  still  considered  scheduled  programming,  and  will  be  subjected  to  the guidelines in  this  code. Pay-per-view services  that  are  not  limited  by  schedule  will  be subjected to the VOD Programme Code. 5 Subscription  Television  service  providers  should  ensure  that  programmes (whether transmitted  in  analogue  or  digital  mode)  comply  fully  with  the  applicable provisions of  this  Code. In addition  to  focusing  on  specific  scenes  or  sequences  in programmes,  service  providers  must  also  remain  mindful  of  the  overall  context  and themes of  the  programmes. The likely  implications,  influences  or  cumulative  effects  of programmes  on  viewers  must  also  be  considered. The provisions  set  out  in  this  Code have to be applied in spirit and should be read in conjunction with other relevant codes, legislation and/or licence conditions. 2 6 The  Code  deals  in  general  principles  and  does  not  seek  to  address  each  and every case  that  could  arise. Broadcasters may  face  a  number  of  individual  situations which are not specifically referred to in this Code. Examples included in the Code are not exhaustive. However, the  principles,  as  outlined  in  the  following  sections,  should  make clear what  the  Code  is  designed  to  achieve  and  help  service  providers  make  the necessary judgments. 7 Some  of  the  provisions  in  the  Code  are  common  to  all  categories  of  television programme services while others apply to a certain categories of rated programmes. This will be clearly stated in the headings or the concerned paragraphs or chapters. 8 This  Code  applies  to  all  channels  that  are  made  available  to  viewers  for personal/home consumption. These include  those  given  as  a  group  at  a  basic  fee,  as well as those that are available as ala carte or premium channels. =Classification, Advisory, and Scheduling = 9 To aid parental guidance and allow for greater viewing choice, all content must be rated according to the Film Classification Guidelines (appended in Annex A) consisting of the following ratings:  G         - General  PG      - Parental Guidance  PG13  - Parental Guidance for Children below 13  NC16   - No Children below 16 years of age  M18    - Mature 18, for persons 18 years and above  R21     - Restricted to persons 21 years and above Programmes rated up to M18 are allowed for broadcast on Subscription Television. 10 The  classification  information  of  a  programme  should  be  presented  visually  and prominently such that a consumer is aware of the programme’s rating before making a decision to view. This may be done by reflecting a classification symbol representing the classification category of the programme at the start of the programme. For programmes rated PG13 and above, consumer advice should also accompany the rating, stating the principal elements which have contributed to the classification e.g. Rated “M18” for Violence. The graphic should be in a readily legible typeface and should remain visible for at least 5 seconds. 11 With  the  exception  of  services  targeting  children,  any  service  provider  can  offer content that are rated NC16 or M18, provided that parental locks are made available for programmes rated NC16 or higher, and programmes are appropriately labelled according to the Film Classification Guidelines (appended in Annex A). 12 All programmes rated M18 should only be broadcast between 10pm to 6am. On-air programme  promotions  for  NC16  and  M18  programmes  should  be  edited  and scheduled appropriately. For instance,  they  should  not  be  shown  on  channels  or programmes targeted at children or at a time when children are expected to be tuned in. =PROGRAMME GUIDELINES= The following  guidelines  apply  to  all  Subscription-Television  channels  unless  otherwise stated in the clauses.

PART 1: NATIONAL INTEREST
1.1 Programmes  should not  undermine public  security  interests or  public  confidence in the law and its enforcement in Singapore. 1.2 Programmes  should  not  contain  extremist  or  anarchic  messages,  such  as advocating or promoting the use of violence for political ends or other purposes.

PART 2: RACIAL & RELIGIOUS HARMONY
2.1 Matters pertaining to race and religion are sensitive and capable of evoking strong passions and  emotion. Therefore, service  providers  must  exercise  due  caution when featuring the activities, beliefs, practices, or views of any racial or religious group in a programme. 2.2 For the purposes of this Code, race includes dialect groups and ethnic groups.

Race & Religion
2.3 Television  as  a  mass  medium  should  be  kept  secular. Programmes of  a proselytic nature should not be broadcast. 2.4 Programmes which denigrate or are likely to offend the sensitivities of any racial or religious group must not be broadcast. 2.5 Programmes which incite or are likely to incite racial and/or religious intolerance or misunderstanding, must not be broadcast 2.6 References to race and religion should be presented accurately and in a dignified and sensitive manner. 2.7 Service  providers  must  bear  in  mind  the  main  religious  faiths  practised  in Singapore, especially when dealing with programmes which make reference to or touch  upon  religious  beliefs  or  views. In featuring  any  religious  belief  or  view, service providers should ensure these do not in any way disparage or cast other faiths in poor light. 2.8 Racial and religious stereotyping should be avoided.

PART 3: CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMES
3.1 For  the  purposes  of  this  Code,  “children’s programmes”  refers  to  programmes which are designed specifically for children of different age groups up to the age of 15. 3.2 Children’s programmes  should  not  contain  scenes  depicting  the  consumption  of liquor or  tobacco  products unless an  educational  point  is  being  made, or  in  very exceptional cases  if  the  dramatic  context  makes  such  scenes  absolutely necessary. Swear words must also not be used in programmes. 3.3 Children  may  not  be  able  to  distinguish  real  life  from  fiction  and  are  likely  to  be disturbed by realistic portrayal of violence, horror etc.  As such, children’s content should not  be  presented  in  a  manner  which  may  be  disturbing  or  distressing  to children or which may in any way adversely affect their general well being. 3.4 Programmes  meant  for  younger  children  require  special  care  as  they  may  find violence and  horror  scenes/programmes  in  both  realistic  and  fantasy  settings  to be disturbing. For example, viewing advisories should be provided to alert parents about such content which may be frightening to pre-schoolers. 3.5 Any  programme  containing  portrayals  of  dangerous  and  harmful  behaviour  that are easily imitated by children in a manner that is likely to result in physical/mental harm, should be avoided.

PART 4: PUBLIC MORALS & SOCIAL VALUES
4.1 Service providers  should bear  in  mind  the  importance  of  the family  as  the  basic unit of society. The sanctity of marriage should be respected and divorce should not be  treated  casually. Adultery, cohabitation  and  promiscuity  should  not  be promoted, but can be explored to a greater detail in content rated  NC16 and M18 if justified by the context. 4.2 Programmes  should  not  make  careless  references  to  any  class  or  group  of persons as being inherently inferior. Programmes should not encourage or in any way lead  to  discrimination  against  any  section  of  the  community  on  account  of gender, age, disability or occupational status. 4.3 Broadcasters should be mindful of social and cultural sensitivities, such as kissing in programmes targeted at Malay audiences which should be avoided.

PART 5: THEMES
5.1 The  theme  (subject  matter  or  topic)  and  message  are  important  in  the classification of a  programme. The acceptability of  a  theme  is  determined  by  its suitability and  treatment  i.e.  the  way  it  is  presented  and  the  context  in  which scenes are presented. Suitability and treatment of a theme is especially important for the  lower  classification  ratings  as  they  have  an  impact  on  the  young. Programmes dealing  with  mature  content  (e.g.  drug  use,  prostitution  or homosexuality) would generally be classified as NC16 or M18.

Sex
6.1 The level of sexual activity allowed in a programme depends on the explicitness and frequency  of  the  activity,  its  relevance  to  the  storyline  and  the  target 5 audience. Generally, depictions of sexual activity are not allowed for G, PG PG13 and NC16. 6.2  Scenes  depicting  sexual  activities  such  as  sado-masochism,  bondage  or  sexual violence will  be  subject  to  strict  review  and  may only  be  allowed  under  a  higher rating, depending  on  the  treatment  and  context. The content  should  also  not  be gratuitous or excessive. 6.3 Programmes  likely  to  encourage  deviant  sexual  activities  such  as  pedophilia, bestiality and necrophilia are not allowed for all ratings. 6.4 Programmes that depict a homosexual lifestyle should be sensitive to community values. They should not, promote or justify a homosexual lifestyle. 6.5 Content considered to be pornographic or obscene in nature is not allowed for all ratings.

Nudity
6.6 Nudity  is  not  allowed  for  a  G  rating. Rear nudity  is  allowed  in  PG-rated programmes if  it  is  discreet,  justified  by  context  and  not  meant  to  titillate. Side nudity in a non-sexual context is allowed under PG13. Upper body frontal nudity in a non-sexual context is allowed under NC16. Full frontal nudity may be allowed for M18, if it is justified by context and without gratuitous close-ups. 6.7 Nudity  featured  in  health  programmes  such  as  breast-feeding  can  be  rated  PG, PG13 or NC16 depending on its portrayal and treatment. More explicit portrayals including child birth could be given a higher rating.

Violence
7.1 The  depiction  of  violence  may  frighten,  unnerve,  unsettle  or  invite  imitation, especially from  children. Therefore, only  mild  portrayals  that  are  relevant  to  the plot may  be  allowed  in  programmes  meant  for  children. For the  higher classifications, a  stronger  depiction  of  violence  is  permitted  if  it  is  justified  by context. 7.2 Broadcasters should be aware of the following concerns in violence:  Depiction of graphic/gratuitous violence  Normalising the use of violence as a solution to resolve problems;  Depiction of violent gangster behaviour (e.g. self mutilation rites);  Emphasis on violent techniques/acts (e.g. methods of torture, gang-fights, combat techniques);  Encouraging aggressive and sadistic attitudes towards infliction of pain and violence;  Explicit and prolonged sexual violence or erotic portrayal of sexual assault /coercion.

Drug Use
6 7.3 Clear, instructive details are not allowed in G, PG and PG13 content as they can be imitated by the younger audience. Such scenes are more acceptable for higher ratings if they are justifiable by context. Portrayals glamorising or encouraging the use of illegal drugs are not allowed for all ratings.

PART 8: GAMBLING
8.1 Service  providers  must  take  into  account  the  likely  cumulative  effects  of programme  content  normalising  anti-social  behaviour  or  gambling. Regular and recurrent portrayals  of  such  content  may  lead  viewers  to  become  more  callous about anti-social behaviour or the ills of gambling.

Gambling
8.2 Programmes  depicting  gambling  or  the  use  of  gambling  devices  should  be presented  with  discretion  and  in  a  manner  that  does  not  encourage  viewers  to gamble or offer gambling instruction to viewers. 8.3 The  broadcast  of  all  forms  of  gambling  tips  is  strictly  prohibited. No programme should encourage,  promote  or  in  any  way  offer  instruction  on  gambling  even  in relation to legalised forms of gambling.

PART 9: HORROR & THE SUPERNATURAL
. 9.1 Classification of programmes with horror  elements should take into consideration the impact  and  shock  effect of  such films  to  ensure  that  younger  audiences  are protected from disturbing materials. 9.2 Programmes exploring occult or other ‘psychic’ phenomena, particularly those with actual  demonstrations  of  exorcisms  or  occult  practices  (e.g.,  supposed contact with spirits, the dead or the conjuring of demons), should be treated with caution.

PART 10: SUPERSTITION
10.1 Programmes should not promote superstitious beliefs. 10.2 Programmes  based  on  or  dealing  with  fortune-telling,  fengshui,  palm-reading, numerology, mind-reading, tarot reading, astrology, new age healing and the like should not  encourage  viewers  to  regard  such  activities  as  providing  commonly accepted appraisals  of  life,  and  should  not  give  the  impression  that  these practices are exact sciences.

PART 11: NEWS & OTHER FACTUAL PROGRAMMES
11.1 Factual programmes such as news, current affairs and documentary programmes should present information in a fair, objective, accurate and balanced manner. 11.2 A right of reply or an opportunity to respond shall be granted to the Government or its agencies, to correct mistakes, wrongful reporting or misrepresentations. For private individuals or groups, an opportunity to respond should be considered 7 based on the merits of each case. The MDA may direct a broadcaster to give an aggrieved party the opportunity to respond over an appropriate medium. 11.3 Significant  errors  in  factual  programmes  such  as  news,  current  affairs  and documentary programmes  should  be  corrected  and  broadcast  at  the  earliest opportunity. 11.4 Factual  content  that  contain  violent/graphic  real-life  images  (e.g.  on  news  or current  affairs)  should  carry  consumer  advice  to  alert  viewers  who  may  be offended by such visuals.

PART 12: MUSIC & VARIETY PROGRAMMES
12.1 Songs and music videos disallowed or otherwise prohibited under the applicable laws and regulations in Singapore must not be offered. However, if suitable edits can be made, such content may be made available. Music promoting drugs or the worship of the devil or the occult should not be offered. 12.2 Entertainment  programmes  involving  children  (e.g.  talent  contests  for  children) should not be exploitative or distasteful.

Language Standards
13.1 Standard  English,  which  is  grammatically  correct,  should  be  used  for  locally produced programmes  such  as  news,  current  affairs  and  documentaries. Local English, which  is also grammatically  correct but pronounced  with  a  Singaporean accent and  which  may  include  local  terms  and  expressions,  can  be  used  for programmes like dramas, comedies and variety shows. 13.2 The use of Bahasa Melayu Baku (standard pronunciation of Malay) is encouraged for all  Malay  programmes,  particularly  news,  current  affairs  and  information programmes. Specific guidelines are as follows: (a) For  local  programmes,  info-educational  and  current  affairs  programmes must be  in  Bahasa  Melayu  Baku. Some flexibility  can  be  exercised  by service providers in relation to drama and variety shows. (b) Foreign or acquired programmes that require dubbing should be in Bahasa Melayu Baku. However, acquired  programmes  that  are  already  in  Malay need not be re-dubbed into Bahasa Melayu Baku.

Dialect
13.3 All  content  on  Chinese  services  must  be  in  Mandarin. The only  exceptions allowed are: i. operatic performances; ii. one dialect art-house movie per week per Chinese channel/service; iii. in every  clock  hour,  up  to  30%  of  songs/music  videos  broadcast  on  a music channel may be in dialect; 8 iv. dialogue and  songs  in  dialect  may  be  allowed  in  content  provided  the context justifies usage and are used sparingly; and v. any other content or channels specially approved by the Authority. 13.4 Chinese dialect is allowed in content of other languages if used sparingly and the context justifies  usage. Examples of  justifiable  context  are:  dialect  interviews given by older people or foreigners who can only converse in dialect.

Coarse Language
13.5 Coarse language and gestures with sexual connotations are not allowed in G films as they are easily imitated by young children. In PG13 films, expletives such as ‘fuck’ may be permitted if infrequent. Stronger language is acceptable in NC16 films. When classifying M18 films, consideration would be given to the degree of offensiveness (i.e. vulgarity and religious association) and frequency of such language.

‘Live’ & Interactive Content
14.1 For  interactive  services,  service  providers  must  exercise  particular  care  when streaming 'live’ video, sms messages and audio response from users, especially where topics involved are sensitive ones, and comments made may be derogatory or offensive. Offensive content should be removed immediately upon detection. 14.2 Where users are allowed to interact with one another via mediums such as short message service  (SMS)  and  instant  messaging  (IM),  service  providers  are  to ensure that all SMS/chats should be moderated to the best of their ability. =IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CODE= This Code shall come into effect on 20 December 2012, and replaces the Code that took effect from 10 March 2010. The MDA may from time to time revise or update the Code to maintain currency. The Code  should  be  read  in  conjunction  with  the  prevailing  TV Advertising Code and the TV Programme Sponsorship Code. - END  - =ANNEX A=

Preamble
1. These  Guidelines  have been  prepared to  raise awareness and  understanding  of the Board's film classification process. This is not a legal document and is not intended to limit in  any  way the  Board's exercise of functions  under  the  Films Act  (Cap  107). While care has  been  taken  to  define  the  content  concerns  and  classification  categories,  the Board reserves the right to classify any film in such manner as it deems fit. 2. The  following  guidelines  serve  as  a  basis  for  classifying  films,  drama, documentaries and TV series on free-to-air TV, subscription TV and video-on-demand. It will enable  subscription  TV  and free-to-air  TV  to adopt the  same  ratings for films  which have been classified by the BFC for the cinemas and video release.

Introduction
3. Classification Guidelines aim to reflect community standards, while ensuring that due consideration is given to the film’s artistic, educational or literary merit. The purpose of classification is to protect the young while allowing more choice for adults. 4. When  making  a  classification  decision  for  a  film,  the  Board  takes  careful consideration of the film’s content as well as all other relevant factors and concerns. The description of  each  of  the  classification  categories  and  the  indication  of  the  suitable audience in terms of age may be found in these guidelines. To clarify the usage of words in the guidelines, a glossary of terms is included. 5. There are six ratings in film classification. They are:  G   - General  PG   - Parental Guidance  PG13  - Parental Guidance for Children below 13  NC16   - No Children below 16 years of age  M18   - Mature 18, for persons 18 years and above  R21  - Restricted to persons 21 years and above 6. G, PG and PG13 categories are advisory ratings while NC16, M18 and R21 are enforceable by  law. Cinema operators are required to  obtain a  licence  to  screen  NC16, M18 or R21 films. They should ensure that the age restriction is enforced. 7. In  exceptional  cases,  a  film  may  not  be  allowed  for  all  ratings  (NAR)  when  the content of the film undermines national interest or erodes the moral fabric of society.

General Principles
8. In  general,  the  Board’s  classification  decisions  are  guided  by  the  following principles/considerations:  Generally accepted social mores  Need to protect the young 10  Racial/religious harmony  National interest  Treatment of theme, content and context  Evaluation of impact a. Generally Accepted Social Mores Films screened  must be  sensitive  to  community standards  of  morality  and decency, as well as social norms acceptable to the general public. b. Need to Protect the Young For the lower ratings, particular attention will be paid to content that may be harmful to or unsuitable for the young. c. Racial/Religious Harmony As Singapore  is  a  multi-racial  and  multi-religious  society,  films  that  denigrate  any racial or  religious  group,  or  create  misunderstanding  or  disharmony  amongst  the races are not allowed for all ratings. d. National Interest Films deemed  to  undermine  public  order,  national  security  and/or  stability  will  be disallowed for all ratings. e. Treatment of Theme, Content and Context How a  film  is  classified  depends  on  its  theme  or  message,  presentation  of  content, and the context in which scenes are presented. f. Evaluation of Impact The impact of a film or a scene will be evaluated based on the presentation, duration, frequency, degree of visual and audio details, and their cumulative effect. The impact may be stronger where a scene:  Is shown in greater detail; uses close-ups and slow motion  Uses  special  effects  such  as  lighting,  sound,  colour,  or  size  of  image  to heighten emotions  Is prolonged and/or frequent  Is more explicit than implied  Is realistic rather than stylised  Is one in which the local audience can identify with  Is visual rather than verbal or written. In addition,  films  produced  in  a  3D  format  heighten  the  viewing  experience  and  will  be assessed for impact. They may be considered for a higher rating. 10. In  classifying films,  due  consideration  will  be given  to  the  artistic, educational  or literary merit of the film.

Major Content Concerns
11. This part of the guidelines spells out content concerns that are applied in different degrees at all classification levels. The seven major content concerns are:  Theme  Violence  Nudity  Sex  Language  Drug Use  Horror a. Theme and Message The theme (subject matter or topic) and message are important in the classification of a film. The acceptability of a theme is determined by its suitability and treatment i.e. the way it is presented and the context in which scenes are presented. Suitability and treatment of a theme is especially important for the lower classification ratings as they have an  impact  on  the  young. Films dealing  with  mature  content  (e.g.  drug  use, prostitution or homosexuality) would generally be classified as NC16, M18 or R21. b. Violence (i) The  depiction  of  violence  may  frighten,  unnerve,  unsettle  or  invite  imitation, especially from children. Therefore, only mild portrayals that are relevant to the plot may be allowed in films meant for children. For the higher classifications, a stronger depiction of violence is permitted if it is justified by context. (ii) The concerns in violence are:  Depiction of graphic/gratuitous violence  Normalising the use of violence as a solution to resolve problems;  Depiction of violent gangster behaviour (e.g. self mutilation rites);  Emphasis on violent techniques/acts (e.g. methods of torture, gang-fights, combat techniques);  Encouraging  aggressive  and  sadistic  attitudes  towards  infliction  of  pain and violence;  Explicit and prolonged sexual violence or erotic portrayal of sexual assault /coercion. c. Nudity Nudity is not allowed for a G rating. Rear nudity is allowed in PG films if it is discreet, justified by  context  and  not  meant  to  titillate. Side nudity  in  a  non-sexual  context  is allowed  under  PG13. Upper body  frontal  nudity  in  a  non-sexual  context  is  allowed under NC16. Full frontal  nudity  may  be  allowed  for  M18  or  R21,  if  it  is  justified  by context and without gratuitous close-ups. Nudity featured in health programs such as breast-feeding can be rated PG, PG13 or NC16 depending  on  its  portrayal  and  treatment. More explicit  portrayals  including child birth could be given a higher rating. d. Sex 12 The level  of  sexual  activity  allowed  on  screen  depends  on  the  explicitness  and frequency of  the  activity,  its  relevance  to  the  storyline  and  the  target  audience. Generally, depictions of sexual activity are not allowed for G, PG, PG13 and NC16. Scenes depicting  sexual  activities  such  as  sado-masochism,  bondage  or  sexual violence will be subject to strict review and may only be allowed under a higher rating, depending on the treatment and context. The content should also not be gratuitous or excessive. Films likely  to  encourage  deviant  sexual  activities  such  as  pedophilia,  bestiality and necrophilia are not allowed for all ratings. . Films that  depict  a  homosexual  lifestyle  should  be  sensitive  to  community  values. They should not, promote or justify a homosexual lifestyle. However, non-exploitative and non-explicit depictions of sexual activity between two persons of the same gender may be considered for R21. Content considered  to  be  pornographic  or  obscene  in  nature  is  not  allowed  for  all ratings. e. Language Coarse language and gestures with sexual connotations are not allowed in G films as they are  easily  imitated  by  young  children. In PG13 films, expletives such as ‘fuck’ may be permitted if infrequent. Stronger language is acceptable in NC16 films. When classifying M18  and  R21  films,  consideration  would  be  given  to  the  degree  of offensiveness  (i.e.  vulgarity  and  religious  association)  and  frequency  of  such language. Films with dialect content are allowed on a case-by-case basis. Chinese films meant for theatrical release should generally be in Mandarin, in line with the Speak Mandarin Campaign. f. Drug Use Clear, instructive  details  are  not  allowed  in  G,  PG  and  PG13  films  as  they  can  be imitated  by  the  younger  audience. Such scenes  are  more  acceptable  for  higher ratings if they are justifiable by context. Portrayals glamorising or encouraging the use of illegal drugs are not allowed for all ratings. . g. Horror Classification of horror films will take into consideration the impact and shock effect of such films to ensure that younger audiences are protected from disturbing materials.

Documentaries
12. Documentaries  will  be  classified  in  accordance  with  the  general  principles  and content concerns  expressed  in  this  document. If the  information/content  is  distorted  or misrepresented,  or  requires  maturity  to  comprehend  and  discern  the  message  and/or intent, the documentary may be given a higher rating.

Consumer Advice
13. Film  ratings  are  usually  accompanied  by  consumer  advice. Films classified  PG may  be  given  consumer  advice  where  necessary,  for  example,  in  the  case  of  violence. Films rated PG13, NC16, M18 and R21 must carry consumer advice. 14. Rating  and  consumer  advice  must  be  clearly  visible  and  legible  in  publicity materials including  website  synopses,  advertisements  in  newspapers  and  magazines. This is  to  provide  more  information  for  consumers  to  make  informed  decisions. It also serves as a guide to parents about the suitability of a film for their children.

Trailers
15. All trailers of films must be submitted for classification. Where the trailer content is not suitable for a general audience, a higher rating will be imposed. Trailers classified as NC16 and  above  can  only  be  exhibited  to  persons  who  meet  the  stipulated  age requirement. 16. Trailers rated PG13 should not be shown prior to a G-rated or PG-rated film, or in public places such as video walls. 17. Trailers  of  NC16  and  M18-rated  films  may  be  screened  during  films  of  a  lower rating and/or  at  cinema  lobbies  and  at  video  walls. However, in  all  cases,  the  content should be  suitable for  a general audience,  including  children. Trailers for R21 films  can only be shown before films of the same rating. Film distributors should also observe any conditions imposed by the BFC on the screening of the trailers.

Publicity Materials
18. To  avoid  offending  unsolicited  viewers  and  attracting  the  under-aged,  stricter content standards  are  applied  to  publicity  materials. These materials  include  posters, banners or  billboards  displayed  in  public  places,  advertisements  in  newspapers  and magazines. Publicity materials for all ratings should conform to community standards and should not offend the  general public. Detailed guidelines for print publicity  materials  are available on the MDA website at http://www.mda.gov.sg/wms.ftp/filmguidelines_promo_materials.pdf. 19. Once a film is classified, posters displayed at public places should clearly display the rating and consumer advice. The display of posters and banners for R21 films should be restricted  to  cinemas  licensed  to  exhibit  R21  films. More sensitivity  should  also  be exercised in the dissemination of publicity materials for films in the lower rating categories as they can be displayed in public places where young audiences are exposed to them.

Periodic Review and Implementation of Guidelines
20. The Board will continue to review guidelines periodically in the light of changes in lifestyle, public expectations and concerns. 15 July 2011

=GLOSSARY OF TERMS= Coarse language: Crude  and/or  offensive  language  lacking  refinement  or taste. Denigrate: To  belittle  or  distort  in  a  negative  way  the  character  of  a person/race/religion Depiction: Representation, and/or portrayal on screen. Detail: Treatment  of  or  attention  given  to  the  amount  of  audio  or visual information in the representation of a subject. Detail can include  close-ups,  repeated,  prolonged  or  slow  motion visuals. Deviant sex: Sexual  behaviour  or  activities  that  are  not  considered socially acceptable. Examples are  paedophilia,  bestiality, necrophilia and orgies. Discreet: Subtle, not explicit, lacking in details and close-ups. Disturbing: Upsetting or troubling. Drug abuse: Improper or excessive use of drugs. Excessive: Beyond  reasonable  limits,  especially  in  terms  of  detail, duration or frequency. Expletive: An exclamatory word or phrase that is obscene or profane. Explicit Language or depiction with strong details, usually relating to sex and violence. Exploitative: Appearing  to  take  advantage  of  or  abuse  the  situation  for the enjoyment  of  viewers  or  for  sensationalism;  lacking moral, artistic, or other values. Fetish: An object, an action or a non-sexual part of the body which gives sexual gratification. Gratuitous: Materials  which  are  unwarranted  or  uncalled  for,  and included without the justification of a defensible story-line or artistic merit. Horror: A strong feeling of fear or distress that is inspired by images or acts that are frightful and shocking. Implied: Depiction of a subject in which an act or thing is inferred or indicated without actually being seen. Incite: To stir up or provoke strong emotions and actions. Intensity: The degree or extent to which a subject matter is acute or strong  (The  intensity  of  a  scene  depends  on  the  duration, 15 the audio/visual effects, language, context and the proximity from which the shot was taken). Justified by context: Where  the  depiction  is  relevant  and  necessary  for  the integrity and continuity of the film. Mature themes: Issues dealing with adult life, including adultery, alternative lifestyles, promiscuity, suicide, drug dependency, etc. Moderate: Depiction  that  features  some  details  and  may  have  some impact that  is  kept  within  reasonable  limits,  which  is generally acceptable. Nudity: Nudity can consist of frontal or rear nudity, above and below the waist  for  both  sexes. It is  determined  by  the  details  of nudity  shown,  and  also  by  other  factors  including  the duration of visuals, repetition, close-up shots and clarity. Offensive: Material that causes outrage or disgust to most people. Pornography: The depiction of erotic behaviour intended to cause sexual excitement. Sexual activity: An act performed with another for sexual gratification. May include foreplay. Sexual Connotation: Words or gestures that imply sexual activity. Sexual violence: The act of sexual assault or aggression, in which the victim does not consent e.g. rape. Sexual simulation: Imitation or enactment of sexual activity that is not real but looks realistic. Strong: Detailed depiction likely to have high impact on viewers. Suggestion: Mild,  discreet  treatment  of  a  subject  in  which  an  act  or object  is  hinted  at,  generally  through  discreet  manner, rather than the whole picture. Tone: The  quality  of  mood,  such  as  sadness,  humour,  menace, lightness, or seriousness. Transvestism: The  lifestyle  in  which  a  person  adopts  the  clothes  and behaviour of the opposite sex for purposes of emotional or sexual gratification. Treatment:     The way in which material is handled or presented. =CLASSIFIABLE ELEMENTS= How a film is rated depends on seven classifiable elements: theme, violence, sex, nudity, language, drug and substance abuse, and horror.

Theme
G Themes are suitable for viewers of all ages. Content should promote positive social values e.g. family bonding, respect for the elders. PG Themes should be suitable for children below 13 years. Themes should generally have a low sense of threat or menace, and be justifiable by context. Special attention should be paid to their Impact on children. Crime, violence, juvenile delinquency and promiscuity should not be glamorised or promoted. PG13 Themes should be suitable for young teens between 13 and 15. Darker themes can be allowed. Crime, violence, juvenile delinquency, and promiscuity should not be glamorised or promoted. NC16 Portrayal of mature themes (e.g. gangsterism and transvestism) may be allowed, provided they are treated with discretion and appropriate to those 16 years and above. M18 Stronger portrayal and exploration of mature themes are allowed. Homosexual theme/content as a sub-plot may be permitted, if discreet in treatment and not gratuitous. R21 Stronger and more explicit portrayal and exploration of mature themes are allowed. Films that portray, as a main theme, same-sex marriages or parenting will be subject to strict review. NAR Themes that promote issues that denigrate any race or religion, or undermine national interest will not be allowed. Themes that glorify undesirable fetishes or behaviour (e.g. paedophilia and bestiality) are not allowed. Promotion or glamorisation of homosexual lifestyle.

Violence
G Mild portrayals of violence are allowed. The occasional mild threat or menace is acceptable if justified by context. No portrayals of dangerous or harmful behaviour that can be easily imitated by children. PG Moderate portrayals of violence without details, may be allowed, if justified by context. Portrayals of violence should not dwell on cruelty, infliction of pain or torture of any kind. PG13 Moderate portrayals of violence with some details, may be allowed, if justified by context. Portrayals of violence can include some infliction of pain and injury but should not be detailed, intense or prolonged. NC16 The portrayal of infliction of pain and injuries may be allowed with some details of blood and gore but should not be prolonged or frequent. Explicit sexual violence is not allowed. M18 Realistic depiction of violence and gore with strong impact is allowed if justified by context. However, the portrayal should not be excessive, gratuitous or exploitative. Stronger portrayals of sexual violence may be allowed if justified by context, infrequent or without strong details. R21 Strong and realistic depictions of violence and gore are allowed if justified by context. Depiction of torture can be allowed, if not exploitative or gratuitous. NAR Detailed or gratuitous depictions of extreme violence or cruelty. Detailed instructions on methods of crime or killings.

Sex
G No sexual activity is allowed. Portrayals of affection (e.g. brief kissing) can be allowed. PG Sexual activity may be implied, and should be infrequent. Only mild displays of affection (e.g. kissing and caressing) and mild sexual innuendoes are allowed. PG13 Sexual activity may be implied, and should be infrequent and brief. Sexual humour can be allowed. Sexual innuendoes, crude hand gestures and sexual imagery can be allowed if mild and infrequent. NC16 Non-explicit depiction of sexual activities may be allowed but should not be detailed or prolonged. M18 Sexual activity may be portrayed if justified by context, infrequent and without strong details. Depiction of occasional, mild sexual activity (i.e. kissing and hugging) between persons of the same gender may be permitted if justified by context and not gratuitous. Sexual violence may be allowed if justified by context, infrequent and without strong details. R21 Simulated sexual activities are allowed if they are not excessive. Explicit images of sexual activity (e.g. masturbation, fellatio and sexual act) need to be justified by context. Explicit portrayals of sex between persons of the same gender are not allowed. Films likely to encourage an interest in abusive or unnatural sexual activity (e.g. paedophilia, incest and anal sex) are not permitted. Films with themes involving deviant sexual activities (e.g. sadomasochism, bondage, orgies or sex involving violence) will be subject to strict review and are likely to be disallowed. NAR Exploitative or pornographic sexual acts. Depictions of obscene and/or unnatural sexual activities (e.g. bestiality, necrophilia and paedophilia). Real sexual activities (e.g. actual penetration, actual ejaculation). Gratuitous, exploitative or offensive depictions or sexual activity including fetishes or practices which are offensive or abhorrent.

Nudity
G There should be no nudity. PG Discreet portrayal of back nudity is allowed if it is brief and in a non-sexual context. Full frontal and side nudity is not allowed. PG13 Discreet and fleeting side profile nudity may be allowed in a non-sexual context. Full frontal nudity is not allowed. However, infrequent portrayal of female frontal nudity of the upper body may be allowed only under exceptional circumstances and in a non-sexual context. For example, films which feature historical or dramatised events such as the World War II Holocaust, tribal ways of life, or health programmes. NC16 Infrequent, brief and discreet portrayal of female upper body frontal nudity may be allowed in a non-sexual context. M18 Full frontal nudity with moderate detail is acceptable if justified by context, and not excessive. No close up of genitalia is allowed. R21 Full nudity is permitted but should not be excessive. Close ups of genitalia should be contextually justifiable. NAR Exploitative and excessive nudity.

Language
G No coarse language is allowed. PG Infrequent coarse language is allowed if it is relevant and justified by context. Examples are "bitch" and “asshole”. PG13 The word "f**k" is allowed if used infrequently. NC16 Infrequent use of expletives such as “motherf**ker”, “cunt”, "chee bye", "lan jiao", "puki mak” and "pundai" may be allowed if justified by context and not impactful. Coarse language which offends community and cultural sensitivities should not be allowed (e.g. "kan ni na lao bu“). Continued aggressive use of strong language and verbal sexual abuse is unacceptable. M18 Coarse language is allowed if it is not excessive. R21 Frequent use of strong coarse language may be allowed. NAR Language that denigrates religion or is religiously profane (e.g. Jesus F**king Christ).

Drug and Substance Abuse
G No references to illegal drugs or drug abuse. Content meant for children should not promote consumption of alcohol and tobacco products. PG Only discreet references to illegal drug use are allowed on the condition that such references do not promote or endorse drug abuse and should be justified by context. Content targeted at children should not promote consumption of alcohol and tobacco products. PG13 Only discreet depictions of illegal drug use are allowed on the condition that such depictions do not promote or endorse drug abuse and should be justified by context. Content targeted at children should not promote consumption of alcohol and tobacco products. NC16 Drug taking may be allowed if brief and infrequent. The film must not promote or encourage drug and substance abuse. M18 Drug taking may be allowed with some details. The film must not promote or encourage drug and substance abuse. R21 Drug taking sequences may be allowed but instructive details of illegal drug use are not allowed. The film must not promote or encourage drug and substance abuse. NAR Materials glorifying or encouraging drug and substance abuse. Detailed and instructive depiction of illegal drug use.

Horror
G Treatment of horror should not be too realistic, or threatening, as it is likely to cause fear and anxiety among children. Horror tinged with humour may reduce the impact. Scenes of horror should be mild and not psychologically disturbing. PG Frightening sequences should not be prolonged or intense. Horror tinged with humour and in a fantasy setting may be mitigating factors. PG13 Depiction of horror can be more realistic and intense. NC16 Films with disturbing or gory scenes without strong details may be allowed. Frightening scenes which are more prolonged may be allowed. M18 Prolonged and/or intense sequences that invoke fear and/or terror may be permitted. R21 Depiction of intense horror, and sustained threat or menace may be permitted if contextually justified. Portrayals of extreme abhorrent activity that may offend and cause great discomfort may be disallowed. NAR N.A.

=See also=


 * Singapore gay censorship

=References=


 * Downloadable original PDF of the Media Development Authority's Subscription Television Programme Code:.