Broadcast regulator to introduce TV ratings system
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The broadcasting regulator has approved in principle guidelines governing local TV content via a ratings system.
Natee Sukonrat, chairman of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission’s broadcast committee, said yesterday that after final approval, the guidelines would be published in the Royal Gazette.
The ratings system will give parents as well as general audiences more information about the content and age-appropriateness of TV programmes.
According to the draft guidelines, the ratings systems will comprise six levels. Level 1 or “Por 3+” is designed for children aged three to five years.
Level 2 or “Dor 6+” is designed for children aged six to 12. Level 3 or “Tor” is for general audiences.
Level 4 or “Nor 13 +” is for viewers aged over 13 years. TV programmes under this rating might contain material that parents may find unsuitable for younger children. They may require parental guidance, particularly for children under 13. Broadcasters may televise such programmes only between 8.30pm and 5am.
Level 5 or “Nor 18+” covers programmes that may require parental guidance, particularly for those below 18 years old, because they may contain infrequent coarse language, sexual situations or moderate violence. Broadcaster may provide such TV programmes only between 10pm and 5am.
Level 6 or “Chor” covers adult programming that may be unsuitable for children under 18. Such programmes may contain crude or indecent language, explicit sexual activity or violent scenes. Therefore, this kind of programme may be aired only between midnight and 5am.
The ratings must appear at the beginning of TV shows.
Natee said all operators of free-to-air television must strictly comply with these guidelines, particularly the time-slot restrictions.
Pay-TV operators can broadcast their programmes at any time but must displaying the ratings to inform the audience before each TV show begins.
“If viewers find any inappropriate content, they can lodge complaints directly at the NBTC Office,” Natee said.
