A media watchdog today criticised the Home Ministry's decision to ban the film Last Communist ( Lelaki Komunis Terakhir ) by local director Amir Muhammad.

The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) said the move would have a discouraging effect on the creativity of local film-makers.

"CIJ condemns the banning of the film, particularly when based on feedback from people who have not watched it.

"The government appears increasingly to be acting on populist concerns without proper investigation," it added in a statement.

The Last Communist initially obtained the green light from the Censorship Board which gave it a 'U' rating thus making it suitable for viewers of all ages.

It was reported that the semi-musical documentary was also screened for Police Special Branch officers, who had no problems with it either.

Stinging reports

However, Amir believes that a series of stinging reports in Malay daily Berita Harian had led to the ministry canning his film.

CIJ urged the government to revoke the ban and allow Malaysians to judge the film based on merits, political and creative, rather than a 'knee-jerk political polemic'.

The Berita Harian reports had quoted politicians and film-makers condemning the movie for allegedly glorifying the exploits of Communist Party of Malaya secretary-general Chin Peng.

The daily's assistant entertainment editor Akmal Abdullah expressed dismay with Amir for not choosing to highlight the heroic exploits of those from his 'own race'.

However, Amir had dismissed this as products of a 'chauvinistic' newspaper.

Home Minister Radzi Sheikh Ahmad said it would be 'insensitive' to screen a film about Chin Peng when Umno is to celebrate its 60th anniversary.