Swiss watchmaker Swatch Group has taken legal action against the Malaysian government, claiming that its reputation has been damaged after rainbow-colored watches celebrating LGBT rights were confiscated. In Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country where homosexuality is considered a crime, there has been a growing intolerance towards the LGBTQ community.
The watches in question are part of Swatch’s ‘Pride collection’ and were seized by Malaysian authorities in May due to the presence of the letters ‘LGBTQ’ on them. According to Swatch, 172 watches were taken from 16 outlets by officials from the home ministry without proper legal justification. The company has filed a lawsuit seeking damages and the return of the confiscated watches.
Seizure notices provided to Swatch argued that the watches contained elements that promote LGBTQ rights, potentially violating Malaysian law. However, Swatch argues that the watches do not pose any threat to public order, morality, or legal standards. They also claim that many of the seized watches did not even have the ‘LGBTQ’ lettering on them. The total value of the confiscated watches is estimated to be 64,795 ringgit ($14,250.05).
Swatch asserts that its ability to conduct business in Malaysia has been significantly affected by these seizures and is now seeking resolution through the court. The case is scheduled to be heard on July 20 at the Kuala Lumpur high court. The home ministry has not yet commented on the matter.
This incident takes place against a backdrop of increasing discrimination against the LGBTQ community in Malaysia. The country has a history of imprisoning and caning individuals for engaging in same-sex relationships. In 2019, several people were detained at a Halloween party attended by LGBTQ individuals. These recent seizures and the subsequent lawsuit also coincide with upcoming regional elections, where Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s progressive coalition will face off against a conservative Muslim alliance.
Critics have accused Prime Minister Anwar of not doing enough to protect the rights of Muslims in Malaysia, a diverse nation with multiple racial and religious groups. Anwar himself has faced legal troubles in the past, including imprisonment on charges of sodomy and corruption. He denies these allegations, dismissing them as politically motivated. Anwar has recently emphasized that his government will uphold Islamic principles and explicitly stated that LGBTQ rights will not be recognized.
Useful Links:
1. Human Rights Watch: Malaysia Country Report
2. Time: Malaysia’s Growing Intolerance Towards LGBTQ Rights
