Jolin Tsai's same-sex marriage music video not banned in S'pore

Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai's music video for the song We're All Different, Yet The Same featuring same-sex relationships is not banned here, contrary to media reports in the region.

A Media Development Authority (MDA) spokesman said that "Ms Tsai's song is allowed in Singapore with the requisite age rating and consumer advice.

"In response to recent queries on the suitability of the song for broadcast, MDA advised the local broadcasters that they should not air the song and music video on channels that are freely accessed by younger viewers due to its mature content. This decision was reached after consultation with MDA's Publications Consultative Panel, which comprises Singaporeans from a wide cross-section of society."

MDA did not specify the mature content in question.

Under MDA's Free-to Air Television Programme Code, it states that "Music associated with drugs, alternative lifestyles (e.g. homosexuality) or the worship of the occult or the devil should not be broadcast."

In the music video, Tsai and Taiwanese actress Ruby Lin lock lips in a wedding setting.

Taiwanese and Hong Kong media had run reports that Singapore has banned the airing of the music video.

Tsai has reportedly released a statement about the restriction, saying that it was a pity as she was expressing support for equal rights to marriage through her music.

However, she added that she respects differences in opinions.

nggwen@sph.com.sg

This article was first published on May 25, 2015.
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