MDDI's Response to PQ on Criteria to Distinguish Prohibited Political Advocacy from Expressions of Humanitarian Concern in Assessing Artists' Conduct Relating to International Conflicts

Parliament Sitting on 10 September 2026

Question for Oral Answer

*10. Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information in assessing artists’ conduct relating to international conflicts, will the Ministry clarify (a) the criteria used to distinguish prohibited political advocacy from expressions of humanitarian concern; (b) how the artists' intent and the context of the expression are taken into account; and (c) will licensing conditions will be reviewed to exclude peaceful expressions of support for humanitarian causes.

Answer

The Government recognises the humanitarian impact of international conflicts and that artists may wish to express concern for those affected. Such expressions are not, in themselves, prohibited.

While humanitarian concerns can be expressed in different ways, it should not undermine public order, national security or stability in Singapore. This condition is made clear in the Arts Entertainment Classification Code issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), which all licensees are required to comply with.

Moreover, Singapore should not be used by foreigners as a platform to further political causes, including those relating to conflicts or political issues overseas. Artists performing in Singapore, both locals and foreigners, are expected to comply with our laws and the conditions of their licence during their event. Besides the intent of their actions, IMDA will consider the likely impact of their performance to assess if the conditions are met.