McDonald's Malaysia has taken legal action against the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Malaysia movement, alleging the dissemination of "false and defamatory statements". The fast-food giant seeks damages totalling 6 million ringgit ($1.31 million).
Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd (GAR), the licensee for McDonald's in Malaysia, is at the forefront of this legal initiative. The lawsuit targets social media posts by the BDS Malaysia movement, linking McDonald's and other companies to what it terms as Israel's "genocidal war against Palestinians in Gaza".
The move comes amid a backdrop of Malaysia's strong support for the Palestinian cause, with the country being predominantly Muslim. Western fast-food brands, including some in Malaysia and other nations, have faced boycott campaigns due to their perceived association with Israel's actions in Gaza.
What is the BDS Movement?
The BDS Movement, initiated in 2005 by over 170 Palestinian groups, aims to garner international support for Palestinian rights.
It describes itself as an inclusive, anti-racist human rights movement inspired by the South African anti-apartheid movement.
It calls for boycotting Israel's government, associated institutions, and companies violating Palestinian human rights. For example, it says “Puma sponsors the Israel Football Association, which includes teams in Israel’s illegal settlements on occupied Palestinian land,” urging the company’s boycott.
