KUALA LUMPUR – The mediation process between McDonald’s Malaysia and non-governmental organisation BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) Malaysia involving a RM6 million civil defamation suit will continue on April 30.
BDS Malaysia’s lawyer Datuk M. Reza Hassan told reporters this after today’s mediation session held at the Shah Alam court complex.
He added that he could not disclose further information on today’s mediation, only that it was “very positive”.
Earlier today, Scoop reported on the presence of anti-Israel demonstrators that had gathered outside the court complex, holding placards and chanting ‘Free, free, Palestine’ this morning.
McDonald’s Malaysia is in mediation with BDS Malaysia after suing the group for RM6 million, of which RM3 million is for loss of profitability due to shorter business hours, RM1.5 million is for severance compensation to be paid to former employees, and RM1.5 million is for expired food products and raw material waste.
The fast-food chain also wants BDS Malaysia to issue an unconditional apology via their website, Facebook, and Instagram pages, as well as to take down the defamatory social media posts that featured the brand’s logo in calling for a boycott and to reveal the identities of all parties involved in spreading the posts.
It is also demanding compensation for exemplary, special, and general damages, as well as 5% interest per annum, costs, and 5% interest on costs.
Boycott calls began soon after October 7 last year, when photos of Israeli soldiers enjoying McDonald’s takeaway meals went viral.
However, McDonald’s Malaysia, which has been operating here since 1982, said it has always been transparent and consistent in its communications and does not support or condone the current conflict in the Middle East.
McDonald’s operations here are run by Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd, which in 2017 was fully taken over by the Reza Group from Saudi Arabia and a local business partner. – March 18, 2024