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BreadTalk apologises for Lee Kuan Yew commemorative bun

SINGAPORE — Bakery chain BreadTalk apologised for a “commemorative bun” it put on sale to mark the passing of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

The commerative bread by Breadtalk. Photo: Facebook/Bilahari Khpsk

The commerative bread by Breadtalk. Photo: Facebook/Bilahari Khpsk

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SINGAPORE — Bakery chain BreadTalk apologised for a “commemorative bun” it put on sale to mark the passing of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

Proceeds of the sale of the buns were to be donated to the Community Chest, BreadTalk indicated. However, the move was criticised on social media as being in poor taste. Some on Facebook said it was a “disgusting” attempt to cash in on the passing of a founding father of the nation.

“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. We regret that this product has caused much concern and appreciate the public’s feedback which we take very seriously,” BreadTalk posted on Facebook today (March 25).

“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. As was our original intent to commit 100 per cent of the buns’ sales proceeds to charity, BreadTalk will still be donating S$30,000 to Community Chest. Once again, we thank Singaporeans’ for sharing your concerns with us and greatly appreciate your feedback.”

The buns had gone on sale with a sign: “Thank you for your unwavering strength and dedication in transforming Singapore. Filled with gula melaka-flavoured grated coconut and mixed with attap seed, this kampong-inspired creation is a tribute to a visionary leader who gave his life to build a nation from a kampong to a successful Singapore today. Let us join hands and hearts to honour him, Mr Lee Kuan Yew.”

A check of various BreadTalk outlets this late afternoon showed that the buns had either been sold out, or apparently pulled from sale. At least one BreadTalk outlet said the buns were pulled because they were not up to scratch in terms of quality. CHANNEL NEWSASIA

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BreadTalk Lee Kuan Yew food

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