In a landmark decision, a Malaysian court has instructed the government to return 172 rainbow-colored watches seized from Swatch shops last year, marking a crucial development in the ongoing debate over LGBTQ+ representation in the country.
Malaysia Court Orders Return of Seized Swatch Pride Watches
Malaysia Court Orders Return of Seized Swatch Pride Watches
A significant ruling for LGBTQ+ rights as Malaysia's high court mandates the return of confiscated rainbow watches featuring "LGBT elements."
The Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled that the government acted unlawfully when it confiscated the watches in May 2023, as they had not yet issued a prohibition on their sale. The government's action stemmed from claims that the watches' designs included elements related to the LGBTQ+ community, which is criminalized under Malaysian law. Home Affairs Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the legal team would assess the possibility of an appeal, emphasizing the need to respect the court's decision to avoid potential contempt.
The watches, valued at approximately $14,000 (£10,700), will be returned to Swatch within 14 days; however, the prohibition against their sale remains in effect, complicating the company's ability to capitalize on the merchandise. Swatch contested the seizure in June, asserting the watches did not disrupt public order or violate any laws at the time of confiscation, as the ban came only months later.
Amid a backdrop of strict laws against homosexuality in Malaysia, the case has widely drawn attention, with Swatch advocating for the Pride flag as a universal symbol of diversity and inclusion. The authorities had expressed concerns that the watches could further normalize the LGBTQ+ movement, which many in Malaysia reject. The Swatch Group has yet to release an official statement regarding the ongoing legal battle.
The watches, valued at approximately $14,000 (£10,700), will be returned to Swatch within 14 days; however, the prohibition against their sale remains in effect, complicating the company's ability to capitalize on the merchandise. Swatch contested the seizure in June, asserting the watches did not disrupt public order or violate any laws at the time of confiscation, as the ban came only months later.
Amid a backdrop of strict laws against homosexuality in Malaysia, the case has widely drawn attention, with Swatch advocating for the Pride flag as a universal symbol of diversity and inclusion. The authorities had expressed concerns that the watches could further normalize the LGBTQ+ movement, which many in Malaysia reject. The Swatch Group has yet to release an official statement regarding the ongoing legal battle.
