LSF RI Promotes Film Literacy and Self-Censorship in South Kalimantan

The Indonesian Film Censorship Institute (LSF RI) held a legal literacy and education event in the field of film and censorship in South Kalimantan Province. Themed “Advancing an Age-Appropriate Viewing Culture,” this event demonstrated LSF’s commitment to disseminating legal values to the public, particularly schoolchildren, youth communities, and local film industry figures.

Imam Safe’i, Chair of the LSF RI’s Inter-Institutional Relations Subcommittee, emphasized in his remarks that similar events have been held in various provinces as part of efforts to spread understanding of film regulations. 

“This is an extraordinary task to maintain the nation’s morals. In 2024, the number of film viewers in Indonesia reached 82 million, while the LSF has censored more than 41,000 films and advertisements. Our film industry is growing rapidly, and education is a crucial element in it,” he said.

Support for the self-censorship movement also came from academics. The Rector of Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM), Prof. Dr. Ahmad Alim Bachri, SE., M.Si., believes this outreach is relevant amidst the rapid flow of digital information.

 “Today’s generation cannot be restricted from accessing information. This outreach provides guidance so they know which shows are appropriate and which to avoid,” he said. He believes this kind of literacy will shape students’ mindsets to be more critical and responsible in responding to developments in entertainment technology.

The Chair of the Censorship Subcommittee of the Indonesian Film and Television Society (LSF RI), Hadi Artomo, emphasized that maintaining healthy viewing is not solely the responsibility of the LSF or filmmakers.

 “If only the LSF did the work, we would be overwhelmed. Public awareness is needed to become their own censors,” he said at the event held at the Swiss-Belhotel Banjarmasin on Wednesday (November 12, 2025). 

Hadi also highlighted the low level of public awareness regarding film age classifications. “Age restrictions are not a formality, but a form of psychological protection for children and adolescents. It is very dangerous for 13-year-olds to watch 21+ films,” he emphasized. 

He emphasized that watching films is not just entertainment, but also a means of developing moral and ethical values.

In an era of digital entertainment flooding—from YouTube, TikTok, and streaming platforms—the LSF now prioritizes a literacy approach and a culture of self-censorship. The public is encouraged to actively select content according to age and context. Nanik Hayati, a member of the South Kalimantan Regional Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPID), also emphasized the importance of an active role for media and cinema managers. 

“Cinema staff shouldn’t just sell tickets, but also monitor them. This is a moral responsibility to the public,” she said. Although the KPID and LSF have different functions, they both share the same goal: protecting the public from age-inappropriate broadcasts. “If there is something that can be synergized, we are ready to collaborate,” she concluded.