McDonald’s Malaysia Sues Israel Boycott Movement for $1 Million in Damages

Kuala Lumpur (Reuters) – McDonald’s (NYSE:) Malaysia has filed a lawsuit against a movement that advocates for boycotting Israel, claiming that the movement’s “false and defamatory statements” have damaged its business. The fast-food giant is seeking damages amounting to 6 million ringgit ($1.31 million).

Support for Palestinians in Malaysia

Malaysia, a majority-Muslim country, has been a staunch supporter of the Palestinians. Western fast-food brands in Malaysia, along with other Muslim nations, have been targeted by boycott campaigns over Israel’s military offensive in Gaza.

Lawsuit Against BDS Movement

Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd (GAR), which holds the license for McDonald’s in Malaysia, has filed a lawsuit against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Malaysia movement. The lawsuit claims that the movement made a series of social media posts linking the fast-food franchise and other companies to Israel’s “genocidal war against Palestinians in Gaza”.

Allegations of Inciting Public Boycott

According to a writ of summons dated Dec. 19, Gerbang Alaf Restaurants alleged that BDS Malaysia incited the public to boycott McDonald’s Malaysia. This led to a loss of profit, job cuts, closures, and shortened operating hours of its outlets.

McDonald’s Malaysia’s Response

McDonald’s Malaysia has confirmed that it filed the lawsuit against BDS Malaysia to protect its “rights and interests,” as stated in a press release on Friday.

Response from BDS Malaysia

In response, BDS Malaysia vehemently denies defaming the fast-food company and has stated its intention to leave the issue to the court for resolution.

BDS Movement’s Objective

The BDS movement aims to end international support for Israel’s “oppression of Palestinians” and pressure Israel to comply with international law.

($1 = 4.5900 ringgit)