SDP video deemed party political film, prohibited under Films Act

SINGAPORE — A video made by the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) has been deemed a party political film, which is prohibited under the Films Act.

However, the Media Development Authority (MDA), which made the decision in consultation with the Political Films Consultative Committee, will not be taking any further action on the video — called “Pappy Washing Powder” — as it is the first incident concerning a party political film. “Parties may not have been fully aware of the requirements under the Films Act,” the authority said today (Aug 17).

A party political film refers to a film which is an advertisement made by or on behalf of any political party in Singapore or any body whose objects relate wholly or mainly to politics in Singapore, or any branch of such party or body; or which is made by any person and directed towards any political end in Singapore;

Under Section 33 of the Films Act, party political film are not allowed to be made or shown unless they meet certain criteria. Live recordings of lawful events, anniversary and commemorative videos of political parties, factual documentaries, films on a party’s manifesto and candidates’ declarations on policies or ideologies, and films made for news reporting by a licensed broadcaster are allowed.

In an advisory issued to all political parties today, the MDA said the laws “ensure that political debate in Singapore is conducted in a responsible and dignified manner, and not by using the film medium to sensationalise serious issues in a biased or emotional manner”.

It reminded parties to ensure their political films do not contravene the Films Act. “If parties or candidates continue to publish party political films, the MDA will not hesitate to enforce the law firmly,” the authority said.

The SDP uploaded “Pappy Washing Powder” on YouTube on Aug 5. It depicts a “commercial” for a washing detergent called “Pappy White”, which washed out the words “transparency” and “democracy” on clothing.