Malaysians boycott firms with alleged ties to Israel

Some warn of its negative impact on the economy and people’s livelihoods

- Hazlin Hassan Malaysia Correspondent

KUALA LUMPUR - Lists of companies with alleged ties to Israel or that had purportedly pledged support to it are circulating on social media here, with Malaysians being urged to boycott them amid the Israel-Hamas war.

Among these companies are American food franchises, which are usual targets every time there is renewed conflict in Gaza due to the US government's pro-Israel stance.

This time, however, some employees are countering the boycott calls, taking to social media to say that these boycotts are affecting their livelihoods.

Some Malaysian politicians have also urged caution in the country's response to the conflict, in view of a possible impact on trade ties with the West.

Malaysia's majority-Muslim population's deep sympathy for the plight of the Palestinians - coupled with strong words by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim against the bombing of Gaza by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) that has killed thousands have fired up those who hope to push for a ceasefire and help the Palestinians from afar. Now entering its fifth week, the conflict has killed more than 1,400 Israelis and over 9,000 Palestinians.

Malaysians have held big pro-Palestine rallies, with the government designating last week as Palestine Solidarity Week.

Other Malaysians, including celebrities, have said on social media that they need to do more than just hold protests.