Swatch Sues Malaysian Government Over Confiscated LGBTQ-Themed Watches

Swiss watchmaker Swatch Group is suing Malaysia following the confiscation of its rainbow-colored watches celebrating LGBTQ rights, an act the company claims has tarnished its reputation and disrupted its business operations in the country.

In Malaysia, where homosexuality is deemed illegal, there has been an alarming rise in intolerance towards the LGBTQ community. In May, authorities seized watches from Swatch's 'Pride collection' due to the presence of the letters 'LGBTQ' on the timepieces, according to the home minister.

According to court documents viewed by Reuters, the home ministry officials unlawfully seized 172 watches from 16 outlets. The lawsuit, initially reported by the Malay Mail, a Malaysian news website, was filed on June 24 at the Kuala Lumpur high court.

Swatch stated in the lawsuit that the confiscated watches posed no threat to public order, morality, or any legal regulations. The seizure notices described the watches as containing elements promoting LGBTQ rights, potentially violating Malaysian law, as asserted by Swatch.

Surprisingly, most of the confiscated watches, which have a combined retail value of US$14,250.05, did not bear the 'LGBTQ' lettering, according to Swatch. In response to the repercussions of the seizures, Swatch is seeking damages and the return of the watches, as the company argues that its ability to conduct business in Malaysia has been significantly compromised.

Malaysia's home ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment. The case will be heard at the Kuala Lumpur high court on July 20. It is important to note that Malaysia has a history of imprisoning or caning individuals based on their sexual orientation. Just last year, 18 people were detained during a Halloween party attended by members of the LGBT community.

This recent seizure and ensuing lawsuit occur just before crucial regional elections. These elections will feature a progressive coalition led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, facing off against a predominantly conservative ethnic-Malay, Muslim alliance.

Critics have accused Anwar of not doing enough to safeguard the rights of Muslims in multi-racial, multi-faith Malaysia. Anwar, who was previously imprisoned on charges of sodomy and corruption, which he vehemently denied, has consistently maintained that his government will uphold Islamic principles, according to state media. He has also clarified that his administration will not recognize LGBT rights.

Photo: Swatch Press Release