MP Baey Yam Keng regrets Eiffel Tower selfie in Paris tribute post on Facebook
Member of parliament Baey Yam Keng, who is known for his frequent use of social media, in particular posting selfies, drew ire from netizens after positing one he took with the Eiffel Tower in a tribute to Paris after the Nov 13 terrorist attacks on the French capital.
Facebook user Cepheus Chan commented on Mr Baey's post: "Firstly, it's badly photoshopped. Secondly, that pose and expression in no way suggest that you're sympathetic to their plight. Thirdly, perhaps a simple photo of the Eiffel Tower would suffice, but no, you had to insert yourself into the picture."
While it was clear that the photo was heavily edited, many speculated that it was photoshopped.
The post has received 428 likes, 298 shares and 143 comments, most of them negative.
One of those commenters, Robin Leong, said:"Hello Baey Yam Keng, was it really necessary for you to put a picture of yourself to express your sympathy? And you are an MP? You really need some serious lessons in humility. Wow."
Another user, Aaron Kok, said: "You are riding a socially trending movement for the narcissistic popularity of getting more likes for your badly shot and poorly photoshopped selfie. Let's get real, you're not praying for Paris. You're posing for Paris. Tasteless, self-serving and a national joke."
Some also commented that the photo was only taking attention from the real issue - the tragedy of the attacks.
Ivy Tan wrote: "People are being slaughtered by terrorists in Paris Lebanon and who knows where else and we're here cyber bullying a politician over a badly photoshopped photo. Seriously guys?"
Mr Baey has since clarified on that post that the photo was indeed taken in May during his trip to Paris.
Earlier on Tuesday (Nov 17), Mr Baey put up another post stating that he regrets that his earlier post "has distracted the message on the global challenges we face today".
He explained: "Besides the utter senselessness and disregard for humanity, the attacks meant something more to me as I was just in Paris six months ago. I had wanted to provide a personal connection to my thoughts beyond text and decided to post a similar photo I uploaded then.
"On hindsight, I could have been more mindful about the choice of photo," he admitted.
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