Thailand introduces age ratings for TV shows

BANGKOK: -- Programme ratings of recommended viewing ages will be introduced on all free-TV stations next month to help viewers gauge the content of shows, Thailand’s Public Relations Department (PRD) has said.

Bangkok Post quoted PRD Chief Pramote Ratthavinij as saying the ratings are designed to serve as guidelines for viewers, especially those with young children.

Mr Pramote said four Thai letters will be used to rate the programmes.

Dor will signify programmes appropriate for children aged two to 12 years, Thor for those suitable for a general audience, Nor for those requiring parental guidance, and Chor for programmes inappropriate for children and youths.

Mr Pramote said the television ratings are a first step to promoting self-regulation in the broadcast media.

Somrak Narongvichai of BEC World, which operates Channel 3, said the ratings will raise people’s awareness of the appropriateness of the programmes’ content.

--Agencies 2006-11-27

It's taken quite a while to get this system off the ground... first reported back in August here.

What about a system to grade the programs?

You could start at bearly watchable and go up to truly diabolical!

Edited November 27, 200619 yr by The Dan Sai Kid

When I was over a few weeks ago I did'nt see anything on tv that would in my opinion need a rating except a bloody big B for boring

I think all Thai soap operas should have a rating - S.

What about a system to grade the programs?

You could start at bearly watchable and go up to truly diabolical!

Agreed. If you understand the Thai language its immeasurably worse.

A ratings system is a good idea, and I am inclined to agree with earlier posts on the subject.

Perhaps in addition to that there could be written warnings such as:

The following program contains effects music that has been used on at least 40 episodes of similar programs - viewers are advised to have a bucket ready!

The following program has been certified as containing no new script material whatsoever.

This program is a derivation of Standard Thai Drama Script Number : 3 - (total count 4). The script has been thoroughly checked for any signs of originality and is certified environmentally friendly and 100% recycled.

...just a suggestion...

edit/ To be fair... almost all western imports are not much better... the exception being English comedy of course!

Edited November 27, 200619 yr by Greer

Television, like most forms of entertainment, is a matter of opinion as to whether you enjoy it or not.

The lack of choice in Thai terrestial television shows is appalling. It is not as if there is a lack of talent; rather I suspect it is a ratings chase.

They could certainly consider some quality imports from other countries, to 'broaden the mind'.

This is a tough job I wouldn't want...

How do you rate 2 men dressed up like ladies, smacking each other in the face with a pie?

edit/ To be fair... almost all western imports are not much better... the exception being English comedy of course!

Oh, have you been watching The Ashes?

This is a tough job I wouldn't want...

How do you rate 2 men dressed up like ladies, smacking each other in the face with a pie?

Hi-so evil woman vs. poor-but-good-hearted maid for the affections of some androgynous lead male.

The drama is broken up by a fat katoey slipping on a banana skin.

Hilarity ensues.