The government censors today banned the Hollywood blockbuster 'Noah' from the predominantly Muslim South-East Asian country for depicting one of Islam's prophets, an official said.

"Noah contravenes one of the guidelines, which is that the face of a prophet cannot be shown," said Abdul Halim Hamid, chairperson of the country's Film Censorship Board.

The film starring Russel Crowe is based on the biblical story of the patriarch who built an ark ahead of the great flood.

Noah also features as one of the most significant Islamic prophets in the Quran.

"Any depiction of any prophet is prohibited in Islam," Abdul Halim said.

Other Islamic countries including several in the Middle East and North Africa have also banned the movie.

- dpa