THE raids by the Home Ministry at Swiss watchmaker Swatch outlets following the release of its “Pride Collection” timepieces bearing the rainbow flag, which associated with the lesbian, gay and transgender bisexual (LGBT) movement, will isolate Malaysia from the eyes of the world, local LGBT advocates said.

They also described the government’s action as showing intolerance towards sexual diversity and exposing LGBT individuals to more discrimination and harm.

The Home Ministry seized the timepieces from Swatch outlets in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 1 Utama, Sunway Pyramid, Setia City Mall, Mid Valley Megamall, Mid Valley Southkey, Sunway Putra Mall, Sogo KL, Queensbay Mall, Fahrenheit 88 and Suria Sabah on May 13 and 14, while stores in KTCC (Terengganu), Aeon KB, Aman Central Kedah, City Square and Viva City Kuching were also issued warning notices.

Jaringan Kebajikan Komuniti (Jejaka) deputy president Dhia Rezki Rohaizad said the group was dismayed by the action taken by the authorities and questioned the legality of the raids and seizures.

“The actions reveal a deeply unsettling level of intolerance. It is more than a matter of colourful watches; it’s about respect for diversity, freedom of expression and most importantly, love,” Dhia said.

“We must remember that a more accepting society begins with embracing all colours of the rainbow. Each represents a different story, a different struggle and a different victory.

“The unwarranted crackdown on these items of expression, which display the colours of the global symbol for diversity and inclusivity, directly contradicts the fundamental freedoms of expression and the promotion of tolerance and understanding.”

Dhia added that as an international brand, Swatch has the right to sell its collections without fear of government interference as long as these products are not illegal or harmful.

“In a world full of colours, it’s a shame that we still have to fight for the right to be ourselves. It’s time we strive for understanding, not just tolerance. And more importantly, it’s time we celebrate our differences instead of punishing them.

“As a society, we need to ask ourselves: What kind of message are we sending when a rainbow, a universal symbol of hope, becomes controversial?”

Dhia also urged Putrajaya to promote a culture of acceptance and understanding rather than repression and discrimination in these trying times.

Following the raids, Swatch Group chief executive officer Nick Hayek Jr said the brand has consistently produced colourful timepieces to represent diversity and to celebrate people from all walks of life.

“Swatch is proud of being the canvas on the wrists for all people worldwide and the many artists working with us. Creativity and colours paired with Swiss-made quality is what we are loved for. We strongly contest that our collection of watches using rainbow colours and having a message of peace and love could be harmful for whomever,” Nick said.

Meanwhile, Justice For Sisters spokesperson S. Thilaga expressed disgust over the incident, adding that the action will drive away foreign investors.

Thilaga said the crackdown on the LGBT community will also cause more damage mentally on the minority.

“This crackdown on sexual minorities has been ongoing for years. This only leads to more discrimination and exposing the individuals to harm,” she said.

“As a nation, Malaysia will continue to be isolated and Malaysia in 2023 should accept diversity of all kinds, including LGBT. It will have an impact on our economy as well as it drives investors away.

“On the other hand, LGBT individuals are facing constant pressure, anxiety, depression and stress. No one should live under self-censorship. It’s forcing them to have a poor quality of life.”

Thilaga added that the problem is not from the LGBT community but from the intolerance shown by political leaders.

“We should learn to co-exist. The people who are intolerant are the real problem, not the (LGBT) community,” said the activist.

Muda deputy president Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz questioned if the government will raid all shops that sell anything with rainbows on their logos or items.

The Puteri Wangsa assemblyman said the action sends a message that it is not safe for brands and companies to operate in Malaysia.

“This is a slippery slope. The minister has to explain the government’s stand on this matter.

“And where do we draw the line, or are we going to start confiscating everything in rainbow colours,” Amira said on Twitter.

The Malaysian Insight has contacted Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail for comments and is awaiting his response.

Earlier today, religious affairs minister Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said Putrajaya is taking steps to curb the spread of LGBT ideology with Mukhayyam rehabilitation programmes.

The programmes are organised by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim), Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah Malaysia, Yayasan Ihtimam Malaysia, and the Selangor Islamic Religious Council.

“The government, through Jakim, has taken initiatives by establishing a Special Committee on Muslim LGBT issues in Malaysia.

“The committee meets at least once a year or as needed. It is composed of ministries, departments, agencies and civil society groups that will coordinate LGBT issues arising among Muslims in the aspects of education and advocacy, dakwah and guidance and enforcement,” Na’im said in a written reply to Ahmad Saad@Yahaya (Pokok Sena-PN) in parliament today. – May 23, 2023.