BreadTalk on Wednesday (March 25) evening said that it has stopped the sale of buns meant to commemorate Mr Lee Kuan Yew.

It also issued an apology on its Facebook page.

The bakery chain on Wednesday started selling the buns called "Lee bu kai ni", loosely translated as "Can't bear to leave you", playing on Mr Lee's surname in Mandarin. The buns were priced at $2 a piece, and were to have been sold until Sunday.

A spokesman for the company said its intent was to "create a commemorative product in memory of the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew whom we deeply respect".

"Nevertheless, we are made aware that this manner of remembering his legacy was insensitive in light of the current context," she added.

She also said the company regrets that the buns have caused much concern and appreciate the public's feedback which it takes "very seriously".

Several Netizens were upset by the sale of the bun, which they described as disrespectful.

Facebook user Stella Tan-Tiah said: "This is so insensitive and disrespectful at this moment to make use of this opportunity to earn money. Eat the bun to commemorate Mr Lee?? No thanks!!!".

Another user, Lynn Pang said: "I don't know about others but seriously, I will not buy even though it is for charity. What a bad marketing tactic. Quite disappointed with BreadTalk management for this idea."

BreadTalk said it would still donate $30,000 to Community Chest, based on the proceeds projected from the sale of the buns.
(The Straits Times)