McDonald’s Malaysia Pursues Legal Action Against BDS Malaysia, Alleging Damages from Defamatory Statements

McDonald’s Malaysia has taken legal action against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Malaysia movement, filing a lawsuit citing damages amounting to 6 million ringgit ($1.31 million). The lawsuit centers on alleged false and defamatory statements linking the fast-food chain to Israel’s actions in Gaza, claiming these remarks have significantly impacted their business operations.

Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd (GAR), the licensee of McDonald’s in Malaysia, asserts that the BDS Malaysia movement’s social media posts incited a public boycott against McDonald’s. The consequence, as claimed by GAR, resulted in substantial financial losses, including decreased profits, closures, reduced operating hours, and subsequent job cuts across their outlets.

In a statement issued on Friday, McDonald’s Malaysia underscored the motive behind the legal action as safeguarding its “rights and interests.” Conversely, BDS Malaysia has firmly denied the allegations of defamation and has opted to address these claims within the legal proceedings.

This lawsuit unfolds against a backdrop where Western fast-food brands in certain Muslim-majority nations, including Malaysia, have faced boycott campaigns due to associations with Israel’s actions in Gaza. The BDS movement, a global initiative, seeks to exert pressure on Israel to adhere to international law and end perceived oppression against Palestinians.

The case between McDonald’s Malaysia and BDS Malaysia is set to be deliberated in court, with both parties poised to present their respective arguments and evidence.