KUALA LUMPUR: The Home Ministry has backed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s push for greater openness in the local film industry, though it maintains that film censorship remains essential to safeguard national interests.
Through the Film Censorship Board (LPF), the ministry stated that local filmmakers should be granted more creative freedom to experiment, express diverse views, and foster critical thinking.
This move aims to keep Malaysia's film industry competitive and relevant amid evolving societal expectations and technological advancements, the ministry said in a statement on Wednesday (Aug 26).
However, the ministry clarified the distinct roles of classification and censorship under the Film Censorship Act 2002.
"While classification determines age suitability, censorship involves a comprehensive assessment against existing laws, policies, and guidelines," the statement read. "Granting an age classification does not exempt a film from censorship."
While every film undergoes LPF evaluation, content will not automatically be cut if the board determines it can remain intact under an appropriate age rating. Assessments analyse scenes, dialogue, audio, themes, and narrative context.
The ministry warned that films breaching regulatory standards face required adjustments or outright bans if non-compliant scenes cannot be resolved. Key priorities remain protecting national security, public order, religion, morality, socio-cultural harmony, and diplomatic relations.
"Openness in creative expression and responsibility toward national interests must go hand in hand to build a mature, competitive, and trusted Malaysian film ecosystem," the ministry concluded.
