THE Film Censorship Board of Malaysia (LPF) will be introducing two new ratings while removing the parental guidance requirement for the “P13” category. 

The existing classifications of “U” (fit for all) and “18” will remain unchanged.  

In last week’s government gazette, Minister of Home Affairs Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced the creation of the new categories in accordance with the powers given to him under the Film Censorship Act 2002. 

“These regulations come into force on February 1, 2023,” he said. 

The latest classification system will expand on the existing one, creating additional categories for those under the age of 12 and for those aged 16 and above. 

An official announcement has not been made. Therefore, the categories have not been clearly defined.  

However, based on the gazette, it would generally mean the following: 

Rated “U”: For viewers of all ages. 

Rated “P12”: Parental guidance is required for viewers under the age of 12. 

Rated “13”: For viewers aged 13 and above. 

Rated “16”: For viewers aged 16 and above. 

Rated “18”: For viewers aged 18 and above.

LPF chairman Mohd Dusuki Ya’acob refused to clarify further but said that the home affairs minister would explain the changes.  

“The home minister will give an explanation soon,” said his official spokesman. 

Malaysia’s film classification system was first introduced in 1953, placing movies into two categories — “Adults Only”, and “Public Viewing”. 

Starting from 1996, the classifications were changed to “U” and “18”. The “18” rating was further divided into four sub-categories to deal with elements of violence, horror, and sex and anything touching on religious, social, and political sensitivities. 

In April 2010, the ratings were changed to “U”, “PG13”, and “18” (this time going back to a single category).  

From January 2012 to the present day, the classifications are “U”, “P13”, and “18”. – January 16, 2023.