Singapore sets limits on artists’ statements about humanitarian crises
In Singapore, artists may express humanitarian concerns about international conflicts, but such statements must not undermine the country’s public order, security or stability. Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How said this in parliament, Channel NewsAsia reports.
According to him, Singapore must not become a platform for foreigners pursuing political objectives, including those related to overseas conflicts or political issues. He stressed that both Singaporean and foreign performers must comply with the country’s laws and the terms of arts entertainment licences.
Assessing performances
Tan was responding to questions from MP Hazlina Abdul Halim about how the authorities distinguish prohibited political agitation from humanitarian expression. She also asked whether an artist’s intentions and the context of their performance are considered, as well as whether licensing requirements for peaceful support of humanitarian initiatives could be reviewed.
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The minister explained that the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore assesses the likely impact of a performance in addition to the performer’s intentions. Under the Arts Entertainment Classification Code, content must not undermine public order, national security or stability. It must also take into account the concerns of different racial and religious groups and the need to preserve racial and religious harmony.
Permitted events
Tan cited several events on social and humanitarian themes that were allowed to take place. In particular, the May event To The Unforgotten included song, poetry and a multimedia work about the Israel-Gaza conflict and received an R18 age classification.
The play 6 Microlectures on Genocides, devoted to the themes of genocide, war crimes and contemporary conflicts, was also classified R18. In addition, comedians discussed the Israel-Gaza conflict during the 2024 stand-up show Namaste, which received an Advisory 16 classification. According to Tan, the mere presence of material on social issues is not prohibited, but each case is assessed in context. He urged licence applicants to contact the regulator in advance for consultations on the content of performances.
