To keep pace with the advent of media technologies and new consumer trends, MDA is reviewing the regulatory frameworks to ensure they remain relevant to the industry and the public.

To this end, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for Communications and Information (then Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts) appointed a Media Convergence Review Panel in March 2012 – chaired by Mr Koh Boon Hwee, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Nanyang Technological University, and comprising 11 other distinguished individuals – to study the issues impacting consumers, industry and society in the converged media environment, and to put forth recommendations to address such challenges. The objectives of the Review are to support industry growth, empower and protect consumers, and foster a cohesive and inclusive society.

Four key recommendations were put forth by the panel:

1. Update the framework for regulating content to encourage industry development, empower consumers and safeguard interests of society

2. Enhance the vibrancy of local content to build shared experiences and strengthen communities

3. Develop policy and regulatory response to copyright and digital piracy challenges

4. Update licensing frameworks to provide greater clarity and consistency in a converged media environment

The Panel issued an interim report containing its preliminary recommendations for consultation with representatives from a wide range of industries and community organisations from August to September 2012.

After careful evaluation of the feedback provided by the industry and community stakeholders, the panel updated the initial recommendations and submitted its final report to the Government on 28 November 2012.

The Government agreed with the principles behind the Panel’s recommendations and MDA is now exploring how best to implement the recommendations, which would entail further engagement with both the industry and general public.