'The New Village' movie being reviewed from various angles

The Film Censorship Board (LPF) is reviewing the local Chinese movie 'The New Village' from various perspectives, especially on controversies surrounding it and the uneasy feeling among a section of the community. Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the second review would include a historical undertone on whether it could raise suspicion among the people before deciding whether it was suitable for public screening. "If the film is not suitable for screening, we believe LPF will withdraw it from public viewing," he told reporters at Parliament lobby here today. It was reported that the Home Ministry had suspended the screening of "The New Village", due to open on Aug 22, pending another review by LPF, following the furore over its content which was said to glorify the banned Malayan Communist Party. LPF Chairman Datuk Raja Azhar Raja Abdul Manap yesterday said the report on the review of the film would be sent to the Home Ministry this week. Meanwhile, in winding up debate on the royal address, Ahmad Shabery said the ministry would continue to monitor television channels which still aired programmes, particularly comedies that promoted the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) tendencies. "However, we have to see them from the context of the characters presented, whether they promote or support LGBT activities. The TV stations involved will be asked to stop the screening of such programmes," he said. He said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission had penalised and warned TV stations which were found to have treaded on the sensitivities of the people.