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GE2015: SDP says MDA reminder on political films 'a bit rich'

Singapore Democratic Party's "Pappy Washing Powder" video. (YouTube screengrab)

[UPDATED on Wednesday, 19 August 2015, 9.45am: SDP responds to MDA reminder.]
As a reminder to political parties in Singapore, the Media Development Authority (MDA) has said that they cannot produce and distribute party political films in the run-up to the general election.

Such films are banned under Section 33 of the Films Act.

Earlier, in anticipation of general election being called this year, the opposition Singapore Democratic Party posted a tongue-in-cheek YouTube video on Wednesday, as it called for donations and volunteers.

Titled “Pappy Washing Powder”, the one-minute video focuses on the supposed effectiveness of a made-up brand of washing powder – stamped with a very familiar looking logo – in removing tough “stains”.

In this case however, the MDA said it would not be taking action as parties may have not been fully aware of the requirements under the Act.


In a response posted on Facebook on Tuesday, the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) said the decision "is a bit rich", and pointed out the fact that the government posted three videos using the Monkey God and music from a Hong Kong comedy to discuss Medishield Life and heathcare coverage. "These videos discussing the serious issue of healthcare coverage for the elderly are anything but serious," said the statement.


The statement added, "Clearly, the reason for banning future SDP videos is not an attempt 'ensure that political debate in Singapore is conducted in a responsible and dignified manner'. The move cannot be seen as anything else other than a naked attempt to stop the SDP's effective use of the social media to communicate our message to the people."

 

In the video, the “stains” referred to words like “transparency” and “accountability” printed onto the t-shirts. After “washing” the t-shirts with the powder, those “stains” disappeared.

 

SDP posted the video on their Facebook page, calling for more volunteers and donations from supporters.

 

This is the latest opposition party to seek donations, after The Workers’ Party made its call on its website.

 

Under the Political Donations Act, political parties are not allowed to receive donations from foreigners or anonymous donors for matters connected to parliamentary or presidential election.

In this case however, the MDA said it would not be taking action as parties may have not been fully aware of the requirements under the Act.