TV & VIDEO - April 19, 1989

The Malaysian government is putting a lid on racy television advertisements and commercials that show only non-Malaysian models. Beginning July 1, Caucasian and other non-Malaysian models can appear in commercials only if the ads also include Malays, Chinese, Indians or other races that predominate in Malaysia. Commercials with women in swimsuits and scanty clothing also will be banned. Michael Tang, president of the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents of Malaysia, called the ban “a little too harsh and debatable” and asked for a review. Malaysia’s population of 17 million is 55% Malay, 37% Chinese, with the remainder mainly Indian. The country has three TV channels, two owned by the government and the other belongs to the ruling party.