McDonald's Malaysia Files Lawsuit Against Israel Boycott Group, Seeks $1.31 Million in Damages
Posted by Emily on 2nd Jan 2024
McDonald's Malaysia, operated by Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd (GAR), has initiated legal action against Malaysia's Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. The lawsuit, seeking 6 million ringgit ($1.31 million) in damages, addresses what McDonald's describes as "false and defamatory statements" made by BDS Malaysia. These statements, McDonald's alleges, have negatively impacted its business operations.
PulauKakatua19, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim nation known for its support of the Palestinian cause, some Western fast-food chains, including McDonald's, have faced boycotts. These boycotts are in response to Israel's military actions in Gaza, with BDS Malaysia actively encouraging such actions.
The conflict has escalated to the courts with the writ of summons, dated December 19, indicating that the boycott led to financial losses for McDonald's Malaysia. This includes reduced profits and necessary staff reductions due to the decreased operation hours and closure of several outlets.
McDonald's Malaysia stands firm in its lawsuit, aiming to defend its "rights and interests," as a recent press release stated. Conversely, BDS Malaysia remains resolute in its stance, denying any defamation and deferring to the court's judgment.
The BDS movement globally seeks to terminate international support for what it sees as Israel's "oppression of Palestinians," advocating for Israel's adherence to international law.
Title Photo Source: Chongkian, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
