SINGAPORE - Department store Metro will shut its five outlets here this Sunday (March 29), when the state funeral for former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew will be held, as a gesture of respect.

Metro's advertising and promotions manager Veronica Lee said: "We felt that we should do so as a mark of respect. Staff will also get a day off to show thanks and reflect."

Normal operations will resume on Monday (March 30).

City Developments also cancelled their Earth Hour activities at City Square Mall on Saturday. Three retailers in The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands have postponed their events, including Cath Kidston's island-wide marketing campaign and the official store opening event of Kate Spade New York.