NDR 2026: Limits on number of dialect film screenings, dialect content on pay TV removed

Singapore's bilingual policy and efforts to promote Mandarin must continue, but the country can also make room for dialects, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Sunday (April 23).

Speaking at the 2026 National Day Rally at the Institute of Technical Education College Central, he noted that Teochew film Dear You had sparked lively debates.

"I believe it is because it reminded us of our pioneers, the sacrifices they made and the hardships they endured, as well as the values they lived by," he said, adding that he agreed dialects are cultural heritage worth preserving.

But that cannot come at the expense of the hard-won gains of the Speak Mandarin campaign, making Mandarin now the common language among Chinese Singaporeans and laying a strong foundation for the country's bilingual policy.

PM Wong also pointed out that the language connects Singapore with Chinese communities worldwide.

"Therefore, our bilingual policy and efforts to promote Mandarin are moving in the right direction and must continue," he said.

Making more room for dialects

Despite this, Singapore can also make more room for dialects, he said, as he announced that there will no longer be a limit on the number of screenings of dialect films.

@asiaone But a Mandarin-dubbed version of the same film must be made available, and Mandarin subtitles must be shown. #sgnews #Singapore #NDR2026 #Movie #Language ♬ original sound - AsiaOne

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) said in a factsheet after the announcement that Mandarin subtitles must be shown for these screenings, and a Mandarin-dubbed version of the same film must be made available.

It also announced the removal of existing restrictions for dialect content on subscription TV services such as allowing only one dialect art-house movie per week or a percentage of dialect songs on a music channel.

"There will no longer be any restrictions on dialect content on subscription TV services," MDDI stated.

Meanwhile, free-to-air broadcasts will continue to be mainly in Mandarin.

The Government will also continue to support the efforts of clan associations in promoting dialects through classes and cultural activities, said PM Wong. 

"I hope they will give Singaporeans more opportunities to learn about dialects, find out more about their cultural roots and strengthen our local Chinese culture," he added.

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