TV and film classifications in Malaysia

TV and film classification in Malaysia
This is an investigation of TV and film classifications in Malaysia, made by myself based on my experiences. TV and film classifications are used since 1996, however there TV3 used it briefly in 1985 with the classification "B" for parental guidance. Such awareness of classifications to the public through special websites and advertisements except news reports are rare unlike in countries such as Australia which is more common. Comparing to the number of classifications in most countries like Australia, the number of classifications is much fewer because of the nature of local culture, customs and Islam being the official religion of Malaysia and the religion of the majority of Malaysians.

• LPF classification

The classification for TV programmes on free-to-air TV, Hypp TV (pay-TV on IPTV) and movies are governed by the Film Classification Board of Malaysia. These classifications are more commonly appear on film listings and movie posters in cinemas and newspapers but not for movie trailers that air on TV. Classifications for TV programmes never appear on TV listings in newspapers and electronic programme guide (as of December 2012, my investigation). TV stations will only air these classifications before each programme (RTM which credits all programmes under the LPF classification as films; TV Alhijrah and Hypp TV use logos only), but may also air these classifications after each commercial break (Media Prima only). News, sports and live programmes are exempted from the classification, but live programmes that may air again as a repeat or pre-recorded may do so.

U - General viewing 
The most common classification. Almost all programmes on TV have this classification. Programmes in this classification can air at any time.
P13 - Parental guidance recommended for viewers below age of 13
The second most common classification but more common in cinemas. TV programmes such as drama, cartoons that have violence (as reported once by myself) and documentaries that are supernatural in nature have this classification. Programmes in this classification can only air at certain times of the day. This rating was introduced as PG 13 in 2009 and was renamed P13 in 2012.
18 -  Not suitable for viewers below age of 18
The least common classification. TV programmes such as wrestling have this classification. Can only air after 10:00 pm until early morning. The 18 classification is a merger of the previous content-based classifications such as 18SG, 18SX, 18PA and 18PL.

• Astro classification

Same as LPF but without the P13 classification. Classifications also appear on Astro's electronic programme listing and movie listings in the Astro View magazine distributed to Astro subscribers. Only Astro movie channels Astro First and Astro Best use P13 classification.

• Other classifications that appear on TV

KBS World's programmes use Korean TV classifications even though they are based in South Korea to be broadcast internationally for foreign audiences. The most common classifications for programmes are 12 and 15, mostly for dramas and variety shows. Disney Channel Asia, Disney XD and Cartoon Network Asia use PG classifications.

(Revised on December 26)