Malaysia’s Film Censorship Board had tightened guidelines for local content that applies mostly to local productions. — Reuters file pic

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2 -- The Communications and Multimedia Ministry revealed today that it is considering a classification to denote Shariah-compliant films and TV shows, similar to current age-appropriate ratings.

Communications and Multimedia Ministry deputy secretary-general Datuk Mohid Mohamed said the classification can then help parents to choose Shariah-compliant shows for their children.

“Maybe one day we can form a special Shariah panel that can classify the ‘SC’ rating to any media contents that are Shariah-compliant,” Mohid said at a seminar on compliant entertainment jointly-organised by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara).

“Therefore, when parent see that ‘SC’ rating, they will feel more confident to let their kids watch those shows.”

Mohid also urged broadcast channels in the country to give more space and opportunities to companies that produce Shariah-compliant contents.

“I am confident that with the cooperation of all parties, the effort to produce Shariah-compliant contents will be received positively and the public will be supportive of it,” Mohid added.

The two-day seminar starting today was also organised by Putrajaya-backed Institute of Islamic Strategic Research Malaysia (Iksim) that was formed last year.

Mara and Iksim also launched a booklet setting the guidelines on Shariah-compliant entertainment today, which was distributed to participants.

Malaysia currently employs a rating system with three classifications: ‘U’ for general viewing, ‘PG13’ for those above 13 years old with adult supervision, and ‘18’ only for those above 18.

The Film Censorship Board had on June 30 tightened guidelines for local content which applies mostly to local Malay productions, but any Chinese, Tamil and English productions that include a Malay cast will also be subjected to the criteria.