The Film Censorship Institute (LSF) Officially Issued Circular Letter

Indonesia Introduces Mandatory Trigger Warnings for Films with Sensitive Content

In a landmark move aimed at protecting mental health, Censorship Film Institution  (Lembaga Sensor Film, or LSF) has rolled out a new regulation requiring special trigger warnings for films featuring sensitive content. Officially titled Circular Letter No. 12/2025, the new rule mandates that all films containing scenes of suicide, domestic violence, or sexual harassment must display a warning card before the content begins.

This is not just a suggestion, it is mandatory across the board. Whether you are watching the latest indie drama in theaters or streaming a blockbuster at home, the rule applies. Each warning must appear on screen for at least 15 seconds, featuring a message such as:

“This film contains scenes that may trigger trauma. Viewer discretion is advised, particularly for survivors.”

A Policy Rooted in Research

The move stems from a 2024 survey conducted by LSF in collaboration with Indonesia’s Ministry of Health, which revealed a compelling statistic: 72% of psychologists agreed that certain film content could negatively affect viewers with mental health vulnerabilities. With growing awareness around trauma-informed media, the LSF’s decision seems to echo a global shift toward more responsible storytelling.

Not Everyone Is Applauding

However, the new policy has not landed well with everyone in the film industry. Acclaimed producer Mira Lesmana voiced her concern during a recent parliamentary hearing, warning that the creative freedom of filmmakers may be under threat.

“This limits artistic expression,” Lesmana argued. “Tragic scenes often serve an educational purpose—they shouldn’t be treated solely as triggers.”

As the debate unfolds, the industry faces a crucial question: how can filmmakers balance creative integrity with the psychological safety of their audiences?

For now, the LSF’s directive marks a significant step in redefining how Indonesia approaches mental health and media. Whether it's embraced or contested, one thing is clear—the conversation around content warnings is far from over.