The Media Development Authority (MDA) said the complaints centered on the bi-monthly magazine's "homosexual content" and its "easy accessibility at retail outlets".

Following the complaints "we have requested the publisher to exercise care and better management of its distribution channels, as well as the editorial content of the magazine," the authority said in a statement in response to AFP queries.

"They have accepted our suggestion."

Manazine said in an article posted on its website that it decided to have a "controlled distribution" after meeting with the MDA. It is now available either through subscription or to those who are given a privilege card which has to be shown at selected outlets selling the publication.

Manazine said the regulator, which renewed Manazine's license, also reminded its staff that Singapore remained a traditional and conservative Asian society, citing remarks by then prime minister Goh Chok Tong in 2003.

"Gays must know that the more they lobby for public space, the bigger the backlash they will provoke from the conservative mainstream. Their public space may then be reduced," Goh had said.

The article took a dig at the restrictions, saying it ran contrary to government moves to promote Singapore as a more open society.

"We have always aimed for a more open-minded community and advocating an integrated progressive society, where people respect each other regardless of background, outlook in life or status," Manazine's chief editor Arjan Nijen Twilhaar was quoted as saying in the article.

"But we might be a bit too forward thinking for conservative Singapore."

"As much as we feel that we should be part of the public space, the authorities received complaints and this limits us in our freedom to distribute."

Singapore has gradually taken a more tolerant approach to the gay community, allowing gay-friendly facilities and shops to open.

Earlier this month, it hosted three nights of dancing and partying in what was billed as Asia's biggest gay and lesbian festival.

However, homosexual acts are still outlawed due to opposition from the conservative majority Chinese population as well as from Malay Muslims. A ban on gay groups registering as societies also remains.

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