McDonald's Malaysia Sues BDS Movement Over Defamation and Loss of Earnings

The fast-food chain seeks $1.31 million in damages, alleging boycotts instigated by the pro-Palestinian group led to significant business losses.

McDonald's Malaysia is suing the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Malaysia movement for defamation and loss of earnings, claiming that the group's social media posts linking the fast-food chain to Israel's conflict with Gaza led to boycotts, loss of profits, and job cuts.
The fast-food chain is seeking damages amounting to 6 million ringgit ($1.31 million).
BDS Malaysia has confirmed receipt of the summons and denies the defamation allegations, stating it will let the court decide on the matter.
McDonald's Malaysia has stated that it does not support or condone the current conflict in Gaza, and has contributed 1 million ringgit ($218,000) to the Palestinian Humanitarian Fund.
McDonald's, along with other U.S.-linked fast-food chains, has been targeted by pro-Palestinian groups since Israel responded to the deadly Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.