Breakfast Network required to register

Under the Broadcasting (Class Licence) Notification, which was enacted under Section 9 of the Broadcasting Act, an Internet Content Provider “engaged in the propagation, promotion or discussion of political issues relating to Singapore” will need to register with the Media Development Authority (MDA). The undertaking that accompanies the registration underscores the need to prevent foreign interests from influencing local politics through the Singaporean media whether in print, broadcast, or online.

MDA has, on 26 November, notified the site owners of Breakfast Network (breakfastnetwork.sg), a Singapore-based socio-political commentary website, to register under the Broadcasting (Class Licence) Notification. As part of the registration, they will be required to undertake not to receive foreign funding for its provision, management and/or operation.

The registration will not in any way affect what Breakfast Network can publish on its site.

However, the undertaking will prevent the site from being controlled by, or coming under the influence of, foreign entities or funding, thus ensuring that Singapore politics remain a matter for Singaporeans alone.

This is in line with the firmly established principle that foreign entities may not engage in Singapore politics or be allowed to control or worse manipulate our local media platforms, which are prime vehicles for political influence.

About Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) 

​The Media Development Authority of Singapore (www.mda.gov.sg​) promotes the growth of globally competitive film, television, radio, publishing, music, games, animation and interactive digital media industries. It also regulates the media sector to safeguard the interests of consumers, and promotes a connected society. MDA is a statutory board under the Ministry of Communications and Information (www.mci.gov.sg).