Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai has said that the banning of film screenings or public viewing events, known locally as nobar, cannot be done unilaterally, asserting that any restriction on cinematic works must be rooted in clear legal mechanisms and a formal court decision.

"A film can only be banned according to a court decision, according to the law," he said on Monday (11/5/2026), as reported by antaranews.com. 

His remarks come amidst the rising controversy surrounding the documentary film "Pesta Babi (Pig Festival)," which has faced cancellations at several regional venues and university campuses following pressure from various groups.

Minister Pigai stressed that individuals or organizations without legal authority are not permitted to stop public screenings. He argued that films are a product of human creativity and expression that must be respected within a democratic society. If a party feels aggrieved or disagrees with the content of a film, Minister Pigai suggested they should seek clarification or produce counter-content rather than resorting to censorship.

"If there are parties who feel accused within the film, then clarify, because there are means for clarification, or they can make a new film," he added. 

The Minister reiterated that without a court order, no one has the right to suppress the public’s access to creative works.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)