Bringing Censorship Closer: LSF Rolls Out Digital Literacy on e-SiAS Film Rating System in Bandung
Bandung, July 9, 2025 — In an age where digital content is created and consumed faster than ever, the Indonesian Film Censorship Institution (Lembaga Sensor Film or LSF) is stepping up efforts to modernize film classification through its electronic censorship system. As part of this push, LSF hosted a literacy and technical training session in Bandung to introduce its digital platform “e-SiAS” to filmmakers and film communities across West Java.
The event, held at Grand Mercure Hotel Bandung City Center, was part of LSF ongoing campaign to increase awareness about the legal requirement for all films and film advertisements to obtain a Censorship Certificate (STLS) before public release, as mandated by Article 57 of Law No. 33 of 2009 on Film. But instead of simply enforcing the rules, LSF is now focusing on empowering content creators to comply more efficiently without leaving their hometowns.
What Is e-SiAS?
Short for Electronic-Based Censorship Administration System, e-SiAS is a fully online platform designed to simplify the censorship process. Through e-SiAS, filmmakers can register an account, submit their work, pay processing fees, receive evaluation feedback, and obtain the official STLS all without having to travel to Jakarta. The entire process is streamlined and can be completed within three working days.
“Now, whether you are releasing content for cinemas, television, or streaming platforms, everything can be done online,” said Tri Widyastuti Setyaningsih - affectionately known as Wiwid- Chairman of Commission I at LSF, who oversees film and advertisement censorship. “The system is accessible to individuals, film communities, educational institutions, and production houses from every province in Indonesia.”
A Hands-On Approach to National Outreach
To boost adoption, LSF is bringing this digital literacy program directly to regions with active film industries. In Bandung, the session attracted over 100 participants, including 24 local film communities, as well as students and educators from universities and vocational schools specializing in film production, broadcasting, and television programming.
The training also included technical guidance on account creation and how to navigate the e-SiAS system effectively. The session was opened by Retno Raswaty, Head of the Cultural Heritage Preservation Center (BPK) for West Java, and featured presentations by Wiwid and Hairus Salim HS, Chair of the Sub-Commission for Independent Censorship Villages and Communities.
Hairus emphasized the broader impact of responsible filmmaking: “Film holds cultural, social, and educational power. By understanding the rules, filmmakers can contribute positively to society while upholding ethical standards.”
Building a Culture of Conscious Filmmaking
LSF’s regional outreach is not just about promoting a new tool—it is about fostering a culture of accountability and awareness. By engaging directly with filmmakers in their own communities, LSF hopes to make censorship compliance feel less like a bureaucratic burden and more like a natural part of the creative process.
“We want filmmakers to view the STLS not as a hurdle, but as a professional standard that elevates the quality of their work,” Wiwid added.
Ultimately, LSF aims to not only increase the quantity and quality of censorship services but also build greater public understanding of the institution’s role in regulating visual content. With e-SiAS now in full swing and a growing movement of digitally literate creatives on board, Indonesia is one step closer to a more transparent, accessible, and responsible film industry.
