MDDI's response to PQ on Alternative Versions of Content in Age Appropriate Categories

Parliament Sitting on 11 November 2024

QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

24. Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether the Censorship Review Committee (CRC) can consider looking into online media streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime and seek their consideration to provide alternative versions of certain content but in age-appropriate categories; and (b) whether CRC will endorse these platforms where they provide certain content in different versions according to age-appropriate categories.

Answer:

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) adopts a co-regulatory approach with online streaming content providers such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime. Such service providers are required to adhere to IMDA’s Content Code for Over-the-Top, Video-On-Demand and Niche Services, including fulfilling the necessary access control requirements to protect the young from unsuitable content. These requirements include rating all content on their services and presenting the rating prominently, and providing parental locks for content rated NC16 or higher. The selection of content offered on these platforms are commercial decisions, but are expected to meet the above requirements. Where breaches are reported, IMDA will engage the platforms to rectify.

There are currently no plans to convene a Censorship Review Committee. The Government takes into consideration Singapore’s prevailing media and social landscape in deciding if and when to convene content regulatory reviews, and the appropriate format for such reviews. On content, policies and standards that are specific to different media platforms, the IMDA continues to consult a range of advisory committees. These varied approaches provide greater flexibility and timeliness in responding to shifts in the media landscape, community sentiments and societal norms.