MCA publicity bureau chairperson Heng Seai Kie today said that it was “not professional” for the authorities to order a second review on the controversial film ‘ The New Village ’ based on objections raised by bloggers.

“Having a second review on ‘ The New Village ’ will tarnish the credibility of the Film Censorship Board and hinder development of local film industry,” she said in a statement today.

“Not only is it (the second review) unfair to the film’s producer, but it will also undermine the professionalism and credibility of the Film Censorship Board and National Film Development Corporation (Finas), as well as scare off foreign investors and hinder the development of the local film industry,” she added.

Heng pointed out that the film had already been reviewed by the censorship board last year and was already given a P13 rating on Sept 11.

She said that the film cannot be accused of glorifying communism as the existence of the Communist Party of Malaya is part of Malaysia’s history, more so in the year 1949, in which the film is set.

“For a simple example, we cannot accuse a producer of glorifying a murderer simply because they produced a murder film,” she said.

“In fact, the accusation towards the movie that it is pro-communism was made by people who have judged the movie based on the two-minute trailer, without bothering to find out about the whole and actual storyline,” she added.

NONE Heng ( right ) said that it is “not fair” to criticise and and victimise local films for one’s own agenda.

“Therefore I urge the Home Ministry to address this issue in a professional and impartial manner. Don’t simply flip-flop and be influenced by a few individuals’ subjective comments,” she said.

“In this matter, the Film Censorship Board should be confident enough and firm in their decision, otherwise it will tarnish their credibility and authority,” she added.

The New Village was objected by several bloggers and also by BN Youth, who have all suggested that the film glorified communism based on its two-minute trailer.

The censorship board has said it would conduct a second review on the film, which was originally slated for an Aug 22 release, in light of the new allegations against the film.