30-12-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) McDonald’s Malaysia has initiated legal proceedings against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Malaysia movement, alleging “false and defamatory statements” that have purportedly negatively impacted its business. The fast-food giant, represented by licensee Gerbang Alaf Restaurants (GAR), is seeking damages amounting to 6 million ringgit (US$1.3 million).
Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country and a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause, has witnessed campaigns urging boycotts against certain Western fast food brands in solidarity with Palestinians, particularly in the aftermath of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The legal action by GAR asserts that BDS Malaysia, through social media posts, linked McDonald’s Malaysia and other companies to Israel’s “genocidal war against Palestinians in Gaza.” The writ of summons, dated Dec 19 and obtained by Reuters, alleges that these posts incited the public to boycott McDonald’s Malaysia, resulting in financial losses, job cuts, and operational disruptions due to closures and reduced operating hours.
In response to the legal action, McDonald’s Malaysia released a statement on Friday (Dec 29) confirming its decision to sue BDS Malaysia to safeguard its “rights and interests.”
BDS Malaysia, in turn, vehemently denied the accusations, stating that it “categorically denies” defaming the fast-food company and expressed its intent to leave the matter to the court’s judgment.
The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, a global campaign, seeks to end international support for Israel’s “oppression of Palestinians” and exert pressure on Israel to comply with international law. As legal proceedings unfold, the case reflects the intersection of business interests, political sensitivities, and activism on an international stage.
