TV3 recently broadcasted the 90th Academy Awards ceremony but censored the outfits of the event’s attendees, including actress Michelle Yeoh.

The censorship blurred the presenters’ dresses, leaving only their heads visible.

Many viewers criticised the obscuration, calling it unnecessary and sexist. Some also pointed out that Yeoh,  is a respected actress and a national icon who should be celebrated rather than censored.

TV3 defended its decision, stating it was in compliance with Malaysian broadcasting regulations, which require broadcasters to adhere to standards of modesty.

Censorship is a contentious issue. Some argue it is necessary to protect values or prevent harm. Others view it as an infringement on freedom of expression. In the case of TV3, I reckon it was excessive.

While it is also important to note that different countries have different cultural and social norms and values that influence what is considered acceptable for public consumption, surely the Malaysian government can do better than to act than in such a paternalistic manner.

Government should help people cultivate the right values and develop media literacy as a long-term solution.

Rather than “helping” people by regulating or controlling the flow of information “for their own good”,  outright censorship is intrusive and undermines individual autonomy.

Citizens should be free to make their own personal decisions, even if those decisions carry risks or have negative consequences. 

Media literacy education will help people develop critical thinking skills to analyse and interpret media content and information.

It can help individuals understand the cultural and religious values embedded in media content and how these values can have an impact. 

The two essential elements of critical media literacy are analysis of media content and engagement with diverse viewpoints.

The government can develop a programme to teach people to analyse content for bias, stereotyping, and cultural context.

This is particularly important in multicultural Malaysia.

Education can people to better understand and respect cultural and religious diversity, reducing the need for government intervention or censorship. 

The UK government’w Media Literacy Strategy and the Digital Britain report can serve as models for Malaysia to emulate.

In 2019, the UK government published the Online Harms white paper, which proposed various measures, including the promotion of media literacy, to tackle harmful online content and behaviour.

The paper highlights the need for individuals to develop critical thinking skills as well as the ability to evaluate and respond effectively to online content effectively. 

Later in 2020, the UK government announced a £100 (RM543) million investment in digital skills training, of which media literacy education is a key component.

Media Literacy Week, seminars, and online resources for teachers, students, and parents are being developed.

While it is still too early to assess the impact of these initiatives, they represent a significant commitment by the UK government to promoting media literacy and digital citizenship.

It provides a valuable model for other countries, including Malaysia, seeking to do the same.

The local TV channel’s censorship of the Oscar guests’ attires highlights the importance of doing so.

The case shows  that the government wants to feed the citizens what it assumes they need  instead of allowing them to think and decide for themselves.

In the age of the internet, censorship also serves no purpose as people can just go online to search for what they want.

By empowering citizens to become more informed and discerning media consumers, Malaysia can promote greater understanding and respect for cultural and religious values while fostering a more inclusive and democratic society.  – April 3, 2023.

* Chu Min Wei holds a degree in Journalism (minor in Political Science) from UTAR and is a member of the Agora Society. She is interested in the study of subculture and media, and believes that institutional reform could have a greater impact on marginalised subcultures and the media landscape.