SINGAPORE - A comic book containing references to the male private part, among other things, has been taken off the shelves at Popular Bookstore, after complaints that some of its content is inappropriate for young children.

The book titled My Bad Bromance is the second in a Malaysian series Bro Don't Like That La Bro. Pictures of pages of the second comic book had spread on social media on Wednesday (Oct 12), especially in Facebook groups for parents.

In a statement on Thursday, Popular Bookstore said that it took "immediate action to ensure that the book has been removed from our shelves", after noting the concerns.

A spokesman said that the book is meant for those aged 18 and above, and is categorised under the "Local Interest" category in the adults section.

"In order to prevent those who do not meet the criterion from accessing the book, each copy comes with a warning label indicating its mature content," she said. "We understand the concerns of the public regarding the sale of the book in our stores."

"Popular takes any feedback from the public seriously and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused," she said, adding that the bookstore will "comply with any future advisories on appropriate retail measures".

The books were taken off the shelves on Wednesday.