SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) has stated that the use of an AI-generated image of Singapore’s founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew in a commemorative music video was considered “respectful”.
The video was released on 18 August 2025 by local filmmaker Jack Neo, who shared it on social media under the title We Are Singapore.
AI-created Lee Kuan Yew in SG60 song
The AI image of Lee Kuan Yew appeared at the end of the video, delivering a birthday message in both Mandarin and English: “I wish Singapore a happy 60th birthday. Happy birthday.”
Neo wrote in Mandarin in his post caption that Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s recent National Day Rally speech had reminded Singaporeans of the importance of unity.
He added that the song was intended as a belated contribution to the SG60 celebrations.
Public reactions divided
Public response to the video was divided.
Some praised the lyrics and message of unity, while others criticised the use of AI to recreate Lee.
One commenter wrote in Chinese: “Using someone’s likeness with AI, regardless of intent, without consent from the person or family, is a violation of image rights, especially for a respected founding father. Authorities should investigate.”
Other users dismissed the AI recreation as “super fake”, saying it lacked sincerity in honouring Lee’s memory or Singapore’s milestone. Some commented that the song, with its AI-generated vocals and imagery, felt overly artificial.
Neo defends creative choice
Speaking to 8world, Neo said he felt it was “very meaningful” to let Lee “wish Singapore” a happy birthday through modern technology.
He highlighted Lee’s contributions to Singapore and noted that many people still felt the loss of his passing.
Neo also revealed that while he wrote the lyrics, the song’s composition, arrangement, and vocals were all generated using AI tools.
Guidelines on use of Lee Kuan Yew’s image
According to MCCY’s guidelines introduced in 2016, individuals may use depictions of Lee in creative works under two circumstances: to identify with the nation in art or publications, or to educate the public on the achievements of Singapore’s pioneer generation.
The ministry stresses that such portrayals must “accord dignity and respect” to Lee’s memory.
MCCY told state media CNA that Neo’s video was assessed as fulfilling this requirement.
Comparisons and further criticism
Some observers compared the situation with international examples.
They pointed out that when Disney recreated actor Peter Cushing for Star Wars: Rogue One, the studio sought approval from his estate.
Critics questioned whether Neo had sought permission from Lee’s family before producing the video.
Adding to the debate, several noted that the video’s release coincided with the Hungry Ghost Festival, leading to ridicule and discomfort over the timing.
Others, however, praised the attempt at innovation, with one viewer remarking that the AI-generated figures looked “not bad”, though facial expressions appeared exaggerated.
2023 controversy over Yeo’s packaging
This is not the first time the use of Lee’s image has sparked debate.
In August 2023, beverage brand Yeo’s drew criticism after placing Lee’s image on chrysanthemum tea packets, with some calling it a “cheap endorsement”.
Questions were also raised about whether the company had secured authorisation.
Yeo’s stated that it had consulted MCCY, though independent outlet Gutzy Asia reported that no permission had been sought from Lee’s executor.
According to The Straits Times, MCCY confirmed that Yeo’s had approached the ministry to ensure its commemorative initiative complied with guidelines on Lee’s name and image.
Later in October 2023, during a Parliament sitting, then Minister of State for Community and Youth Alvin Tan confirmed that Yeo’s had indeed consulted MCCY before releasing the 500,000 limited-edition packets, which were not for sale but intended as a tribute.
PAP MP Poh Li San raised concerns that discarded packets might cause disrespect. In response, Tan said MCCY promoted responsible disposal and took public feedback into account.
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