Malaysia Bans the Sales of LGBTQ-Themed Swatch Watches
The Malaysian government has banned the sale and use of watches owned by the Swatch Group that support LGBTQ rights. The policy was announced on August 10, 2023.
LGBTQ-themed products by the Swiss watch company are considered harmful to morality and public interest. If violates the rules, it cloud be imprisonment.
As quoted from Reuters, homosexuality is considered a crime in Muslim-majority Malaysia. So far, Malaysia has imprisoned or whipped people for homosexuality.
In May 2023, Malaysian authorities confiscated rainbow-colored watches from Swatch's 'Pride' collection because of the acronym 'LGBTQ' on the watches.
Following the seizure, on Thursday, August 10, 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs declared a ban on LGBTQ themes in any form on Swatch watches. Starting from the box, wrapping, accessories, or other items.
"(Swatch products) shall be subject to the Prohibition Order as it is a publication that harms or may harm morality, public interest and the interest of the country by promoting, supporting and normalizing the LGBTQ+ movement which is not accepted by the general public in Malaysia," said a statement from the ministry.
Swatch did not immediately respond to the ban on its products. However, they sued the Malaysian government over the seizure in May 2023. They argue the seizure was illegal and damaged the brand's reputatio
Swatch did not immediately respond to the ban on its products. However, they sued the Malaysian government over the seizure in May 2023. They argue the seizure was illegal and damaged the brand\'s reputatio
