Wearing Swatch’s ‘Pride Collection’ in Malaysia can lead to 3 years prison time
The government has banned the Swiss brand’s coloured accessory for promoting LGBTQIA+ rights
On Thursday, August 10, the Malaysian government issued an official statement mentioning that people wearing watches from the ‘Pride Collection’ of Swiss watchmaker Swatch could face up to three years in prison.
“Swatch products have been banned as they are detrimental, or possibly detrimental, to morality, the public interest and national interest by promoting, supporting and normalizing the LGBTQ movement which is not accepted by the general public of Malaysia,” stated the country’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
According to CNN, the ban not only applies to watches but anything rainbow-themed from the Swiss watchmaker — including other accessories/products or related packaging. Anyone wearing, selling, importing or distributing them could be imprisoned and fined up to around RM20,000.
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Prior to the announcement on the same day, Malaysian authorities seized as many as 172 watches from Swatch’s Pride Collection since they “bore LGBTQIA+ connotations” and carry “LGBTQIA+ elements”.
According to a statement by Swatch CEO Nick Hayek Jr., “We strongly contest that our collection of watches using rainbow colours and having a message of peace and love could be harmful for whomever.”
Swatch Marketing Manager in Malaysia Sarah Kok also said that she would continue to display the products on shelves, in addition to filing a lawsuit to the Supreme Court alleging that banning the collection is considered illegal.
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LGBTQIA+ is inherently considered against the law in Malaysia, who adheres to a dual-track legal system — in addition to Islamic law applicable to Muslims, civil law also applies to the Chinese and Indian communities as well as Muslims in general.
Recently, the Malaysian government cancelled the remainder of Good Vibes Festival due to Matty Healy of The 1975 criticising the country’s stance on LGBTQIA+ rights.
[Via: CNN & Mixmag Asia Vietnam]
