Malaysia OKs limited screenings

Censors have approved Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ” for screening in Malaysia — but the government says only Christians should watch it and only specially designated cinemas can show it.

The film, a huge hit in the United States, was widely expected to be banned in Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country that often restricts movies about religion and other sensitive topics.

The government decided that the movie could be shown, under certain conditions, but publicity material such as posters and movie trailers are not allowed.

Muslims revere Jesus as a prophet, not as the messiah. The Quran, unlike the New Testament, says Jesus did not die on the cross and did not save humanity.

Malaysian censors often adhere to rules similar to those applied in some Arab countries.