Tsai Ming Liang is naturally disappointed that his new film I don't want to sleep alone , has been heavily censored in Malaysia. The new movie, shot in Malaysia, dabbles on sexuality.

The Taiwanese director had wanted the film to be screened in its totality to the Malaysian audience, but the censorship board had decided otherwise.

"The movie involved (the cast) the younger generation and it was produced here (Malaysia), it is important to dedicate the movie to the (Malaysian) public," he said.

Tsai had earlier refused to comment on the matter after the Home Ministry shot down his request to screen the full version of the movie.

However, he appeared to have changed his mind last night at the New Era College saying that the movie was "terribly distorted" after eight main scenes of the movie were censored.

"Let them feel disappointed, let them watch the edited version although I know they will feel disappointed," he told some 100 students at the college forum.

Tsai commented that he had faced difficulties while promoting the movie in Malaysia because the people here failed to understand the story.

Originally, local cinemas were only allowed screening for a week. Due to the ticket sales, it was extended to two weeks.

Despite difficulties, Tsai said he would continue to produce films in Malaysia.

Not suitable for all

The movie director felt that one of the reasons the ministry 'clipped' the movie was "because the element of sex was strong."

"They said it was not suitable for everyone," he said.

Tsai, however, insisted that the public be allowed to watch the movie.

He reiterated that he used the sexual element to express communication between people.

Tsai said he had watched the public reaction from the ban, saying that "the voice of the public was one of disappointment."

"The moment they announced the movie has been censored, it made people think about the movie, and whether it should be censored in the first place," he said.

I don't want to sleep alone is screened at the Picture House in Cathay Cineleisure, Damansara.

Last night's forum was jointly organised by state-owned Chinese radio station, AiFM and New Era College.