Media Convergence Review Panel proposes changes to media regulations

A panel comprising several corporate and Internet heavyweights has proposed a slew of changes to Singapore's media regulations so the industry can better keep up in the age of Netflix, Hulu and iTunes.

In a 63-page report published on Wednesday, the panel has suggested, among other recommendations, that the Government make it clear that foreign online broadcasting services such as iTunes and Netflix must be licenced here if they want to sell to consumers in Singapore.

At present, there is confusion over whether these online video services need to be licensed and what license to apply for.

Licensing is a way of regulating content to ensure they are not against national harmony, public interest or offend good taste or decency.