Media classification in Singapore is currently administered by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). All forms of media, including films, TV programs, video games, and theatrical productions, must receive an age classification before widespread distribution.
Prior to June 1991, works are either passed, censored or banned from publishing as its media classification does not exist back then. In June 1991, the Media Development Authority (MDA) (now called Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA)[1]) instituted a content rating system. At first, the ratings had three levels but over the years, these ratings have been expanded into six classifications to comply on television broadcast standards, with three being in the general rating and three being in the restricted ratings; the shapes are also changed as such (green circles (previously green triangles) for general ratings, orange rectangles for restricted ratings) for better identification.[2]
There are classification systems for the following types of media: films, TV programs, video games, and arts entertainment (e.g., theatrical productions).
Films and TV programs share this rating system. Under the Section 5 of the Content Code, free-to-air TV content must also adhere to additional restrictions, including the content label advisory before the start of the show.
While it is optional for G and PG to display a descriptor, below here are the common possible labels:[8] [9]
See main article: article and Parental controls. It is a regulation for pay television and any online content to enforce a PIN code to access content or modify the requirement rating. The parental locks can be set at a minimum level of either NC16 or M18 level. R21 content are locked by default and could only be accessed when verified by age and a separate parental lock is mandatory.[10]
Following a controversy in November 2007, in which the government banned the video game Mass Effect,[11] and then unbanned it a day later,[12] over concerns that the game featured homosexuality, the IMDA announced that it would create a new classification system for games in early 2008.[13] Therefore, starting from April 2008, video games that were sold in Singapore were required to undergo classification.
As of 2022, there are 2 ratings in the classification system. Games only need to be classified if they are physically sold in Singapore - however, some digital storefronts like Steam may display the IMDA rating to Singaporean users if one is present.
| Advisory 16(ADV16) | Suitable for individuals who are at least 16 years old. Unlike the NC16 rating, this is an advisory rating, and is not legally enforced. | |||
| Mature 18(M18) | No official badge after July 2021 | Restricted to individuals who are at least 18 years old. This is a legally enforced restriction, and customers who attempt to purchase these games must present photo identification. Prior to July 2021, the distributor needed to purchase official labels from IMDA - today, distributors can simply self-print the labels. |