INSTANCES of vandalism at McDonald’s and Starbucks outlets in Malaysia, with messages calling for a boycott of the brands in support of Palestine are on the rise.

After the vandals targeted a Starbucks outlet in Sabah, now it is the turn of a McDonald’s outlet to have its wall painted with a ‘Boycott’ written on it.

The two incidents occurred in Tawau, Sabah, and Sungai Petani.

Authorities reportedly arrested a suspect in the McDonald’s case. Despite calls for boycotts against brands associated with Israel, questions were raised about the motive behind the vandalism.

As for the Starbucks outlet in Tawau, Sabah, where individuals spray-painted “free Palestine” and “boycott” on the wall, Tawau police chief Champin Piuh stated that CCTV footage captured the incident, but the perpetrators remain unidentified.

Starbucks Malaysia previously addressed misinformation leading to violence and vandalism, emphasising its stance on humanity and condemning violence in the Middle East.

Berjaya Corp Bhd founder Tan Sri Vincent Tan Chee Yioun urged against boycotting Starbucks Malaysia, highlighting that it predominantly employs Malaysians, including Muslims. - April 20, 2024

https://focusmalaysia.my/acts-of-vandalism-against-foreign-fast-food-stores-are-on-the-rise/