The Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) has issued draft changes to its Media Market Conduct Code that includes proposals for new powers over internet-based content and is seeking public comment on the issue.

While the review looks at all forms of new media, it will play especially close attention to potential areas of regulatory conflict like IPTV, where new media may compete directly with traditional media players.

The draft was released as part of a scheduled three-year review of the Code. When the Code was first introduced in 2003, it was a regulatory vehicle for print and broadcast media, with the broadband internet still in its early commercial stages.

“The move is part of MDA’s continual efforts to nurture a pro-business environment while ensuring more media choices for the public,” the Authority said in a statement.

“The revision of the Code will ensure that it remains relevant and effective in promoting fair market conduct and competition amidst the rapid changes in the Singapore media industry,” it said.

The Code was first implemented in April 2003 to address competition issues related to the broadcasting and print sectors. The revised Code aims to move beyond these sectors to address changes in the media industry, and is expected to be released in the fourth quarter.

“The media landscape has changed since 2003 and a good example is the adoption of different business models by traditional and new media players,” MDA’s media policy director Ling Pek Ling said.

“With the emergence of new media markets and the introduction of HDTV and IPTV services, it is timely for us to look at how we can update our Code to meet the needs of the media industry,” Ms Ling said.