SINGAPORE, March 29 (Xinhua) -- Singapore Saturday criticized the online airing of a film "Fitna" (Discord in Arabic) by Dutch Parliamentarian Geert Wilders, saying it is offensive to Muslims.

    In a written reply to media queries, Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng described the release of the film as "regrettable," adding, "Freedom of expression does not give anyone the license to insult another's religion or race."

    He expressed confidence that Singaporeans will react to the film in the same rational and calm manner as with the publication of the Danish cartoons.

    That is because Singaporeans value the racial and religious harmony that is now enjoyed, he added.

    In a separate statement, the National Council of Churches of Singapore said it deplored the film's release, as it denigrates Islam by portraying it as a religion of violence and aggression.

    Such portrayal totally distorts the fact that there are millions of peace-loving and tolerant Muslims, it added.

    The Council also pointed out that the film is clearly offensive and hurtful to Muslims, with its release being irresponsible.