MDA's response to SDP's statement

The MDA strongly disagrees with Singapore Democratic Party Secretary-General Dr Chee Soon Juan’s view that our decision to classify “Pappy Washing Powder” as a party political film (PPF) was a “partisan political move”.

“Pappy Washing Powder” is clearly a PPF as defined in the Films Act. It uses dramatic elements to sensationalise serious issues, and is an example of political discourse that does not befit the seriousness of the elections. In classifying the video, the MDA had consulted the Political Films Consultative Committee, which agreed that it was a PPF.

Dr Chee is also wrong to say that the “Pappy” video is similar to recent Government videos on the Pioneer Generation Package and MediShield Life. The latter two videos are made by the Government to communicate public policy, and make no reference to any political party. They are therefore not PPFs.

The Films Act clearly states that PPFs cannot be made, distributed or exhibited. However, as this is the first incident concerning a PPF, the MDA has decided to take no further action as parties may not have been fully aware of the requirements under the Films Act. The MDA instead reminded all political parties to abide by the Films Act earlier this week, and invited parties to consult the MDA if they had any doubts over the contents of a political film.

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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, 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).