MDA clears air over licensing framework for news websites

MDA clears air over licensing framework for news websites
    POSTED: 31 May 2013 5:41 PM

This comes a day after a joint statement released by writers who provide sociopolitical news and analysis online, voicing concerns over an individual licensing framework recently introduced by the MDA.

SINGAPORE: Singapore's Media Development Authority (MDA) has come out to clear the air over the recent changes to the licensing framework for news websites.

This comes a day after a joint statement released by writers who provide sociopolitical news and analysis online, voicing concerns over an individual licensing framework recently introduced by the MDA.

The writers said they are concerned about whether the new requirement will impact Singaporeans' ability to receive a diverse spread of news-related information.

In a Facebook post on Friday, MDA said the licensing framework only applies to sites that focus on reporting Singapore news and are notified by MDA that they meet the licensing criteria.

MDA clarified that an individual publishing views on current affairs and trends on his/her personal website or blog does not amount to news reporting.

MDA also stressed that the framework is not an attempt to influence the editorial slant of news sites.

MDA added that there is no change to the content standards for these news sites.

MDA said currently these sites already have to observe content guidelines under the Class Licence.

This means that the sites are required to make best efforts to keep their sites free of harmful contents which are against public interest, public morality, public order, public security and national harmony.

These Class Licensing guidelines will continue to apply under the individual licence.

As for MDA's content guidelines, these are focused on core content concerns that would threaten the social fabric and national interests of Singapore.

Some examples include content that incites racial or religious hatred; misleads and causes mass panic; or advocates or promotes violence.

MDA clarified that it will only step in when complaints are raised to its attention. It would assess if the content is in breach of the content guidelines and merits action by the website owner.

As for take-down requests, MDA said these are not common. In the past two years, MDA has only issued one take-down notice for the "Innocence of Muslims" video.

On the issue of the performance bond of S$50,000, MDA said this is pegged to that put up by niche broadcasters currently.

MDA stressed that this need not necessarily entail cash upfront.

MDA added that licensees can consider options such as banker's guarantee or insurance.

In concluding the post, MDA said it would be happy to engage in further discussions with any licensee who may have concerns about meeting the licence obligations.

On Friday evening, the Singapore People’s Party (SPP) issued a statement on its Facebook page that Non-Constituency Member of Parliament Lina Chiam has filed an adjournment motion to speak on the new media licensing rules at the next Parliament sitting.

This is subject to confirmation by the Parliament Secretariat.

In its statement, SPP said it views MDA's latest licensing regime for websites with grave concern.

- CNA/ir/fa

- wong chee tat :)