The Singapore government has affirmed that artistes are permitted to express concern over international conflicts, provided their content does not threaten public order, national security, or social stability within the country. Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How made the remarks on September 10 during a parliamentary session.
Tan’s comments came in response to a question from Member of Parliament Hazlina Abdul Halim (East Coast GRC), who inquired about how the government evaluates artistes' conduct relating to overseas conflicts. The question followed a recent incident involving British trip-hop band Massive Attack, whose members were issued police warnings and subsequently banned from re-entering Singapore. The band had displayed a Palestinian flag on stage during their concert on July 29, with one member calling out "free Palestine." The ban also includes the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) declining any applications for future performances by the group.
Tan explained that both local and foreign artistes performing in Singapore are required to comply with national laws and the conditions set out in their event licenses. The IMDA’s Arts Entertainment Classification Code, which governs plays, concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural performances, explicitly states that artistic expression must not undermine public order. The agency assesses not only the intent behind performances but also their likely impact on the local community.
"Moreover, Singapore should not be used by foreigners as a platform to further political causes, including those relating to conflicts or political issues overseas," Tan said.
In response to follow-up questions, Tan cited several examples of permitted performances on socially relevant topics. These included the May staging of "To The Unforgotten," an R18-rated event featuring music, poetry, and multimedia addressing the Israel-Gaza conflict. Another was "6 Microlectures On Genocides," also rated R18, which explored themes of genocide, war crimes, and contemporary conflicts. Additionally, a stand-up comedy show titled "Namaste in 2024," with an Advisory 16 rating, included a segment referencing the Israel-Gaza situation.
Tan emphasized that Singapore’s licensing framework aims to protect younger audiences from inappropriate content while allowing individuals to make informed viewing choices. At the same time, certain limits are necessary to prevent content that could incite disorder or pose risks to national security.
He also noted that licensing decisions are "contextual" and take into account the prevailing social climate and assessments by relevant agencies at the time. Tan encouraged prospective applicants to engage with IMDA early in the process so that the agency can coordinate with other public bodies to provide clear guidance.
Singapore’s approach seeks to balance artistic freedom with maintaining social harmony amid a complex and often sensitive global environment.