with effect from 1 september 2008, under the public entertainments and meetings (speakers' corner) (exemption) order 2008 ("2008 pema order"), responsibility for registering people wishing to speak or stage an exhibition or performance at speakers' corner was taken over from the police by the commissioner of parks and recreation by way of an amendment to the parks and trees regulations. to provide greater convenience, the national parks board made it possible for people to register online at its website. in addition, it became possible to hold demonstrations provided that they are organized by singapore citizens and the participants are only citizens and permanent residents. as the time period restriction was lifted, events can now be held around the clock. in addition, rules on voice amplification were revised to allow the use of self-powered amplification devices like loudhailers from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. this relaxation of the rules potentially allows for speakers' messages to be heard by larger audiences. a minor change was also introduced to the conditions for the use of speakers' corner – no banner, film, photograph, placard or poster containing any violent, lewd or obscene material may be displayed or exhibited whether before, during or after the event.