In a significant legal development, McDonald’s Malaysia has filed a lawsuit against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Malaysia movement, seeking damages amounting to 6 million ringgit ($1.31 million). The lawsuit alleges that BDS Malaysia made false and defamatory statements that adversely impacted the fast-food chain’s business, leading to financial losses and operational challenges.
McDonald’s Malaysia, operated by Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd (GAR), contends that BDS Malaysia’s social media posts linked the fast-food franchise, along with other companies, to Israel’s “genocidal war against Palestinians in Gaza.” The writ of summons, dated December 19, asserts that these statements incited the public to boycott McDonald’s Malaysia, resulting in a decline in profits, job cuts, and operational disruptions such as closures and shortened operating hours.
The legal action reflects a broader issue faced by some Western fast-food brands in Muslim-majority countries, including Malaysia, where boycott campaigns against companies perceived to be associated with Israel’s military actions in Gaza have gained traction.
McDonald’s Malaysia, through an official statement, confirmed its decision to file the lawsuit against BDS Malaysia, citing the protection of its “rights and interests” as the primary motivation. In response, BDS Malaysia categorically denied defaming the fast-food company and expressed its intention to address the matter through the legal process.
The BDS movement, a global campaign, seeks to end international support for what it describes as Israel’s “oppression of Palestinians” and aims to exert pressure on Israel to comply with international law.
