‘Censor violent scenes in Tamil films’

KUALA LUMPUR: Violent scenes in Tamil films must be censored to prevent Indian youths in the country from getting involved in crime, particularly violent ones.  

Malaysia Hindu Sangam president Datuk R.S. Mohan Shan said this was because youths were easily influenced by violent actions performed by their favourite heroes to the extent of trying to copy them.  

"The violent actions in Tamil films are for entertainment purpose and not applicable in real life. But our Indian youths are easily influenced by the films," he told Bernama when contacted, here, Sunday.

He drew attention to the murder of Attorney-General's Chambers appellate and trial division deputy head Anthony Kevin Morais, whose body was dumped in a concrete-filled drum found in Subang Jaya, and the murder and burning of four individuals in Tapah last year.  

"These are examples of violent murder cases and must be viewed seriously. There are violent killing scenes in Tamil films which prompt youths to be involved in activities that contravene the law," he said.  

Mohan Shan urged the Film Censorship Board of Malaysia to take into account these matters and control such films in light of the social ills taking place in the country.  

Malaysian Crime Prevention Awareness Board president Datuk Seri Dr Saharuddin Awang Yahya agreed with Mohan's views.  

He said the influence of films containing violence must be viewed seriously because they could contribute to an unhealthy culture, adding that any film produced must have a positive message.  

An ex-policeman who used to be involved in crime investigations here, R. Karniappan said violent Tamil films contributed to social problems in the country including violence, but the percentage was small.  

"Not many Indian youths are influenced by the violent actions in films despite often viewing such films," said Karniappan, who had served in the police force for 36 years. - BERNAMA