The request by the Penang government to cinemas in the state not to screen 'Tanda Putera' reflects "narrow-mindedness" and smells of a banning culture, Communications and Multimedia Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek said today.

"A state government has never done so (banned a film). This shows narrow-mindedness and is a start of a banning culture that is excessive," Shabery told reporters today.

NONE Speaking at a cinema at The Pavillion in Kuala Lumpur, he said the ministry would check whether local councils have the power to stop a cinema from screening an approved film.

"I will study this, as it is still new. The Penang government does not understand that banning can only be done by the Home Ministry, and for films that are inappropriate, such as pornography, the Film Censorship Board is involved," Shabery said.

Will they also ban Negaraku?

The minister said Penang's request on Tanda Putera also raises questions as to whether the state would also try to stop the playing of the national anthem in conjunction with National Day.

“Could it be that after the film is banned, they will ban other things too? We worry that they may also ban the Negaraku, just like the Selangor government previously banned the 1Malaysia logo,” Shabery said.

He said this after launching the ministry's campaign to play the national anthem and two patriotic films clips prior to the screening of the main feature in cinemas nationwide, from today until Sept 3.

Although the campaign was supposed to start today, the minister said several cinemas did not adhere to it as they have yet to receive the official copy of the national anthem and the film clips.

“I have received complaints of some places (that have not played the Negaraku) due to delays in receiving the (official) compact disc. This is a technical matter... we will ensure there will be no problem tomorrow,” Shabery added.

After watching the film The Conjuring , Shabeery told reporters that Penang's request for cinemas in the state not to screen Tanda Putera "reflected their stupidity".

"Those who made the decision have not seen the film. They should listen to professionals before simply imposing a ban," he said.

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