THE Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry currently does not have any policy regarding the act of boycotting products associated with Israel as it is the consumer’s rights, said its deputy minister Fuziah Salleh.

“As government, our position is to support Palestine. However, the interpretation whether to support, boycott or otherwise, is up to the consumer,” she said when winding up the Supply Bill 2024 debate at the committee level for the ministry in the Dewan Rakyat today.

She said a majority of foreign brands in Malaysia are owned by local companies through the master franchise concept which is subject to the Franchise Act 1998.

“For example, McDonald’s is owned by Gerbang Alaf Sdn Bhd and Starbucks is owned by Berjaya Group. Gerbang Alaf Restoran Sdn Bhd has over 300 outlets and more than 25,000 local employees.

“These international brands pay royalties. However, it is the consumer who makes the decision,” she said before the Supply Bill 2024 was later passed in the Dewan Rakyat with significant voice votes.

The Dewan Rakyat sitting continues tomorrow. – Bernama, November 14, 2023.