SINGAPORE: The Government is looking at enacting laws to protect
the name and image of the Republic's founding Prime Minister, the
late Mr Lee Kuan Yew, against commercial exploitation and
misleading use.
Culture, Community and Youth Minister Lawrence Wong revealed
this while speaking to the media at the sidelines of the National
Community Engagement Programme Dialogue on Saturday (May 23).
Mr Wong said the move comes as many members of the public have
raised concerns over the misuse of Mr Lee's name.
Mr Wong said: "I should make it very clear that the intent is
not to restrict people from coming up with their own creative ways
to pay their tribute to Mr Lee. Our intent is in line with public
concerns."
The minister said there are already existing laws to regulate
the use and display of national symbols, such as the Singapore flag
and anthem. This comes under the Singapore Arms and Flag and
National Anthem Act, which states how Singaporeans can use the
symbols to identify with the nation.
The Act also seeks to ensure that national symbols are treated
with dignity and respect.
Mr Wong said the Government is studying laws that can be put in
place particularly to prevent misleading use and commercial
exploitation of Mr Lee's name and image.
Some possibilities include expanding the current Singapore Arms
and Flag and National Anthem Act or coming up with separate
laws.
- CNA/av
