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Singapore relaxes screening of dialect films after Dear You film spurs debate

Singapore will no longer restrict the number of cinema screenings for dialect films, relaxing a decades-long policy in a significant move that analysts say was…

By Samantha Johnson / August 23, 2026
Singapore will no longer restrict the number of cinema screenings for dialect films, relaxing a decades-long policy in a significant move that analysts say was driven by recent discourse over the Chinese blockbuster Dear You.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said on Sunday the relaxation came with the prerequisite that a Mandarin-dubbed version would be available. Restrictions for pay television content in dialect will also be eased, with details to be announced at a later date.

“Even as we promote the use of Mandarin, we can also make more room for dialects,” said Wong, delivering his Mandarin speech at the annual National Day Rally. “Many see dialects as a cultural heritage worth preserving. I agree.”

Previously, guidelines dictated that Chinese films meant for theatrical release should generally be in Mandarin, and dialect films were allowed on a case-by-case basis. The policy was in line with Singapore’s Speak Mandarin Campaign, a movement launched in 1979 which originally aimed to replace dialects with Mandarin as the common language of Singapore’s Chinese community.

Wong recalled recent discourse sparked by Dear You, a Chinese indie production filmed primarily in Teochew which premiered locally in June.

“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,” said Wong, adding that he had watched the Teochew version of the film.

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