A NEW LICENSING SCHEME for online news in Singapore as triggered a tragic result: it is effectively extending the country’s strict regulation of news and public affairs information to its relatively freer online news media.
Singapore media on Monday, 28 May, reported that a fact sheet posted on the website of the Media Development Authority (MDA), announced that all online news media in the city state will henceforth come under a licensing regime.
SEAPA executive director Gayathry Venkiteswaran described the introduction of the online news licensing system as a “dangerous development which will further restrict press freedom in Singapore.”
Gayathry added that “Singapore authorities are likely targeting the alternative media in Singapore, which remains a vibrant space for news and views that are restricted in mainstream print and broadcast outlets.” Full story
