SINGAPORE: The Shifu Food Court, located in the bustling Bras Basah Complex, has found itself at the center of a heated controversy after allegations of plagiarism emerged on social media.

Following a month-long closure for renovations, the food court reopened on September 30, revealing its newly designed space, which included striking murals that were meant to enhance the dining experience.

However, the excitement was short-lived. Just days after their unveiling on September 21, it came to light that these murals had been copied from the works of renowned local illustrator Lee Xin Li. The backlash was swift and severe, as social media users called out the food court for lack of originality and artistic respect.

In response to the mounting outrage, Shifu Food Court issued an apology and promptly removed the allegedly plagiarised murals from their premises. They expressed regret for the incident that has tarnished their reputation and committed to ensuring that such oversights would not happen again in the future.

This incident raises broader questions about copyright infringement in the creative industry and the responsibility of businesses to respect artists' intellectual property. As the creative scene in Singapore continues to flourish, preserving the integrity of artists' work is crucial for fostering a diverse culture.

Local artists and supporters have rallied around Lee Xin Li, using social media platforms to highlight the importance of originality and the impact of plagiarism on the creative community. As this story continues to develop, it serves as a potent reminder for both businesses and consumers about the value of authenticity in art.

Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story, and let us know your thoughts: How do you think businesses should protect artists against plagiarism?