To Singapore With Love appeal rejected
SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Films Appeal Committee is upholding the Media Development Authority (MDA)’s decision to ban Tan Pin Pin’s To Singapore, With Love from theatrical release.
According to its statement, nine out of the committee’s 12 members voted to uphold the “Not Allowed for All Ratings” (NAR) decision. The remaining three voted for a Restricted 21 (R21) rating, which would’ve allowed the film to screen publicly.
FAC Chairman Tan Boon Huat wrote, “As real people and events were featured in the film, the FAC felt that viewers who watch it without sufficient knowledge and understanding of the historical context would take the views presented as the truth. This would mean that acts of violence and subversion would appear justified to the uninitiated.”
In early September, the MDA
Now that the appeal process is completed, I am exploring different options regarding the film’s access including private screenings provided for under the NAR classification.
– Tan Pin Pin, director
classified the documentary NAR-rated for its depiction of political exiles, including former members of the Communist Party of Malaya, who left Singapore for a new life abroad. The MDA claimed that the film undermines national security and gives a distorted perspective. It was planned to be screened with two other films by Tan at the National University of Singapore Museum.
In mid-September, the film was screened at the Freedom Film Festival in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, just across the border from Singapore.
“Singaporeans should be given the opportunity to view the film in public screenings, to weigh for ourselves different viewpoints about our past. This film is from the perspective of the exiles. I believe Singaporeans are mature enough to appreciate that it is one of many views, ”Tan wrote on the film’s official Facebook page.
Tan added, “Now that the appeal process is completed, I am exploring different options regarding the film’s access including private screenings provided for under the NAR classification.” Films refused certification may, for example, screen at educational institutes if it is part of a course syllabus.