The global boycott against McDonald’s is still going strong, with many Malaysians reiterating their stance on the fast food chain for its alleged ties to Israel. However, a recent incident has led many netizens to question whether the boycott, even with its good intentions, has gone too far.
According to a report by Kosmo Online, a man from Pahang was recently threatened for dining at McDonald’s with his family. The incident reportedly took place at approximately 10.25pm on 12th April (Friday) at an undisclosed McDonald’s outlet in Kuantan. A group of protestors were holding a boycott campaign outside the premises to show support for Palestine when they began harassing customers. One of the victims was a man in his 40s, who was dining at the restaurant with his family.
Kosmo Online alleged that the man was yelled at and provoked for dining at McDonald’s amidst the ongoing boycott. The victim initially ignored the group of men to continue his meal but was once again harassed as he exited the restaurant. As the victim approached the group of protestors, one of the men reached for his helmet and began threatening to attack the victim. The man’s wife managed to stop the fight before it escalated and urged him to file a police report over the harassment.
Following the incident, China Press reported that the suspects in the case have been arrested. According to the news outlet, the three men – all of Malay descent reportedly aged between 27yo to 33yo – are now under police custody to assist with investigations. They will be investigated under Section 506 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation.
Netizens have also reacted to the incident, condemning the harassment against innocent customers. Many said that while boycotting is encouraged to show support for Palestinians, many locals have used the boycott as an excuse to harass the public and get violent. Some said the authorities should step in to prevent the situation from getting out of hand.
What are your thoughts on the issue? Are you in support of the protestors? Or do you think they were too aggressive?
Sources: Kosmo Online, China Press, Twitter
