KUALA LUMPUR – Acts of vandalism and aggression against McDonald’s Malaysia assets and stakeholders are hurtful and counterproductive, even in solidarity with Palestine, said managing director Datuk Azmin Jaafar.
He expressed concerns over rampant acts of vandalism and aggression in various outlets nationwide, including vandalism on its billboards, signboards, and restaurants, as well as aggression towards McDonald’s staff members and customers.
“These actions cause significant harm and distress to our crew members, as well as the surrounding community. While I respect the rights of individuals to express their views, I appeal to everyone to refrain from actions that damage property.
“We are all part of the Malaysian family, and such behaviour is hurtful and counterproductive. The safety of our employees – all of whom are our fellow Malaysians – is our utmost priority.
“Standing up for the plight of Palestinians in Gaza is important, but it should not come at the expense of harming fellow Malaysians,” he said in a statement today.
Azmin urged Malaysians to be responsible when expressing their views, as neither vandalism nor aggression foster constructive dialogue and resolution and instead “contribute to a more dire situation”.
He said he shared the pain and despair of the circumstances in Gaza as a Muslim while also standing in solidarity with Muslims there and across the globe.
He said McDonald’s Malaysia, as a fully Muslim-owned business, has an unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes.
“We have consistently voiced our support for the victims in Palestine and have donated RM1 million to the Palestinian Humanitarian Fund.
“Additionally, our employees have collectively raised more than RM100,000 in donations to further aid those affected. We do what we can, and I encourage everyone to do the same.”
On April 24, a McDonald’s billboard in Sg Petani, Kedah, was vandalised with the phrases “Boikot pembunuh”, “Darah Palestin di tangan kamu”, and “Bebaskan anak Palestine” written with spray paint. – June 1, 2024