Censorship: Forbidden Kisses

SWINGING Singapore: hip, open minded and free at last of its government-issue girdle. That's the image the city state likes to project these days as it tries to catch up with big, bad Hong Kong.

And then in steps Ally McBeal to spoil everything. How? By engaging in a little television lip-locking with her Chinese female co-worker Ling Woo. The government-controlled Television Corporation of Singapore (TCS) didn't like the look of that, and has banned the episode of Ally McBeal in which the kissing scene takes place.

The TCS explains: "As a responsible broadcaster, we are very careful to monitor and take action against overtly sexy or alternative themes. We do this without compromising the program's integrity and appeal."

Ally, who is about as erotic as a string of overcooked spaghetti, will no doubt be astonished and delighted to hear she has aroused such emotions.

But local gay activist Alex Au is not pleased. "This is damaging to Singapore," he says. "Gay and lesbian issues are a worldwide phenomenon. If Singapore wants to be a global center, it's important we stay abreast of such issues, instead of burying our head in the sand."

• Published in the ASIAWEEK April 7, 2000.
   
  Return Home