BDS Malaysia said it received a writ of summons accusing the group of defaming the fast-food franchise through its calls for a boycott of McDonald’s Malaysia, among other franchises, for allegedly “colluding with Israel”.
BDS Malaysia said in a statement: “They claim their business has suffered lately and are blaming us. We categorically deny this (defaming McDonald’s Malaysia). We have therefore decided to let the court decide on the matter.”
McDonald’s Malaysia confirmed filing a suit against BDS Malaysia, saying the action was taken to protect its rights and interests.
“While we understand and respect that the act of boycotting is an individual decision, we believe that it should be based on facts and not false allegations.
“We have been transparent and consistent with our communications that McDonald’s Malaysia does not support nor condone the current conflict in the Middle East and like all Malaysians, our utmost sympathies go out to the innocent victims in Gaza,” it said in a statement.
A statement of claim dated Dec 19 was filed by McDonald’s Malaysia, through the franchise owner Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd.
It seeks an unconditional apology from BDS Malaysia within 48 hours and RM6 million in damages, comprising RM3 million for loss of revenue, RM1.5 million for employees who were laid off and RM1.5 million for expiry of materials.
Gerbang Alaf Restaurants also seeks an injunction against BDS Malaysia from its calls for a boycott of McDonald’s Malaysia, among other franchises, allegedly for “colluding with Israel in the genocide of the Palestinian people”.
The statement also made reference to several posters which included McDonald’s Malaysia’s logo which were shared by BDS relating to companies allegedly “profiting from the genocide”.
“There were also incidents where the plaintiff’s employees were threatened and shamed on social media,” Gerbang Alaf Restaurants said.
BDS Malaysia, an independent coalition of various organisations and individuals is part of the worldwide Palestinian-backed boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement which calls for a boycott of Israeli and international companies involved in the violation of Palestinian rights.
Franchises such as McDonald’s and Starbucks have faced calls for boycotts in Malaysia over alleged links with Israel.
In October, it was reported that the 21,000 workers of McDonald’s Malaysia were facing uncertainty following the boycott campaign.
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