Singapore is well known to be a much disciplined country. There are certain regulations that must be followed. There are rules about gum-chewing and graffiti, to flushing toilets and ban on certain publications.
It came now as a big surprise that its traditional government has lifted its ban on some publications. It was reported that it ranged from communist materials to adult content. The erotic English novel Fanny Hill and the communist text The Long March made the cut.
The Strait Times said that the MDA (Media Development Authority) "routinely reviews prior classification decisions, in order to ensure that they keep pace with societal norms."
However, Singapore remains strict over adult magazines and publications from Jehovah's Witnesses Church.
The 17 publications that are still banned are also those that have sexual content. Namely, Mayfair, Hustler, Girls of Penthouse, and Penthouse.
These remain prohibited based on the Undesirable Publications Act, which means that the possession as well as distribution of these should be restricted as they are considered contrary to public interest.
It means that people can't just go gallivanting around the country possessing these magazines.
Certain publications that were allowed are already out of print, while others were deemed acceptable based on content, the Strait Times added.
In 2004, the last review of banned media was performed. It was when a 22-year ban was lifted for Cosmopolitan magazine.
MDA still advises the publishers for the unbanned titles to evaluate if these are within the MDA's content standards for the foreign publications.
"The publications industry is largely self-regulated. In assessing whether a publication is suitable for importation or distribution, importers, local publishers and retailers refer to content guidelines issued by MDA and the Undesirable Publications Act.
"Importers may refer the publications to MDA if in doubt," MDA said to Strait Times.
