10-8-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysia has taken a controversial step by imposing a ban on Swatch Group watches and accessories that celebrate LGBTQ rights. The country’s authorities argue that these products could have a detrimental impact on morality and public interest.
Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim nation, considers homosexuality a criminal offense, leading to concerns from advocacy groups regarding the growing intolerance faced by the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community. Instances of imprisonment and caning related to homosexuality have been reported in the country.
In May, the Malaysian government seized rainbow-colored watches from Swatch’s Pride collection due to the presence of the acronym ‘LGBTQ’ on the timepieces.
The Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Thursday that any references to LGBTQ on Swatch watches, including packaging, accessories, and other related items, would be prohibited.
Explaining the decision, the ministry stated, “(Swatch products) are subject to the Prohibition Order because they are publications that harm or may harm morality, public interest, and the interest of the state by promoting, supporting, and normalizing the LGBTQ+ movement, which is not accepted by the general public in Malaysia.”
The possession or sale of the banned materials could result in a jail term of up to three years and a fine of up to 20,000 ringgit ($4,375).
Swatch has not yet responded to the ministry’s announcement.
The company previously filed a lawsuit against the Malaysian government in response to the seizure in May, claiming that the act was illegal and had damaged its reputation.
The issue of LGBTQ rights in Malaysia has gained significant attention since the government recently halted a music festival in Kuala Lumpur. The decision was made after Matty Healy, the lead singer of the British pop band The 1975, kissed a male bandmate on stage and criticized the country’s anti-LGBTQ laws.
The discussion surrounding LGBTQ rights in Malaysia coincides with a politically sensitive period for the nation, known for its multi-ethnic and multi-faith makeup.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s progressive coalition government is about to face its first major test of public support on Saturday, as six states hold elections. The upcoming polls will witness Anwar’s party competing against a predominantly conservative Malay-Muslim alliance that has gained popularity. The opposition has criticized the government for not adequately upholding Islamic principles.
Anwar, who was previously imprisoned on sodomy charges that he claims were politically motivated, has made it clear that his administration will not recognize LGBTQ rights.
