New guidelines issued for use of name and image of Lee Kuan Yew

SINGAPORE — The image, name and likeness of the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s founding Prime Minister, should not be used for product endorsements or commercial purposes, the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) said on Wednesday (March 16) as it set out three “broad guidelines”.

In a statement, the ministry said it had been looking into ways to encourage the “appropriate use of the name and image of Mr Lee” since public feedback poured in following the former PM’s death on March 23 last year.

Following a review, the ministry said it would be instituting three broad guidelines, the first of which says Mr Lee’s name, image and likeness “may be used for purposes of identifying with the nation, including on works of art or publications or items for charitable purposes, in accordance with law”.

The second guideline says the use of Mr Lee’s name and image should be accorded dignity and respect.

The final guideline prohibits the late PM’s name, image and likeness from being used to endorse products or commercial ventures. No penalties, however, were spelled out for those who flout the guidelines.

The ministry said: “To ensure the appropriate use of Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s name and image while continuing to encourage expressions of national pride and identity, a set of guidelines has been set out. The MCCY will continue to monitor the use of Mr Lee’s name and image”.