Bakery Issues Apology For Commemorative Buns In Memory Of Lee Kuan Yew, Founding Father Of Modern Singapore

BreadTalk, a bakery chain in Singapore, has apologized after issuing a commemorative bun in memory of Lee Kuan Yew, the city's first prime minister, a revered leader who died on March 23. The campaign received mixed reactions on social media, with some patrons suggesting that everyone should be allowed to pay respects in his or her own way, and others calling for the resignation of the company's press team.

"We would like to convey our deepest apologies with regard to the commemorative bun ‪#‎rememberingLKY which was introduced at BreadTalk outlets today, 25 March 2015," BreadTalk wrote in a Facebook post.

"We regret that this product has caused much concern and appreciate the public's feedback, which we take very seriously. Our intent was to create a commemorative product in memory of the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, whom we deeply respect. Together with all Singaporeans, the passing of our Founding Prime Minister is deeply felt by all of us at BreadTalk. Nevertheless, we are made aware that this manner of remembering his legacy was insensitive in light of the current context. With immediate effect, we will cease the sale of this product from all outlets."

The company, which had originally intended to donate the sum of the proceeds to charity, will donate $30,000 to Community Chest, an organization that provides those in need with a range of social services. 

 

This post was originally published March 26, 2015