Vietnam is considering a ban on lip-synching and skimpy clothing in a campaign to tackle "wrongdoing" in the entertainment industry, officials said Wednesday.
The Ministry of Culture and Sports is soliciting comments on a controversial plan to introduce work permits for models and singers.
"Veterinarians need work permits to treat animals, so artists who are considered 'doctors of the spirit' will have to get a work permit to perform in front of the public," deputy minister Ho Anh Tuan said.
Nguyen Dang Chuong, director of the performing arts department, said applicants would need to meet conditions of "morality, professionalism and have a clean resume."
The ministry has not provided further details.
"The purpose of this plan is to enhance the role of the government administrative agency in the performing arts field which has been inefficient for many years," Chuong said. "The second is to enhance artists' responsibility to the public when taking part in artistic performances."
Models and singers are often fined for wearing revealing clothes. Organisers of fashion show The Long-legged Bash 7 were fined more than $1 500 last month for featuring models in underwear.
Many artists have criticised the work permit proposal.
Singer HaAnh Tuan, 29, said it was "not the best way" to manage performers. Well-known veteran singer, Anh Tuyet, 52, said the system would encourage corruption, with bribes given to obtain the permits.
"For me, I have performed for audiences for many years, there is no reason why I should now have to get a work permit to sing for my audience," she said.
Violations would result in suspension of permits for six months with fines of up to $500.
If the plan is approved, it would take effect in January.
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