The group affirmed its commitment to non-violence, saying there is no need for criminal acts to garner public support in the fight for Palestinian freedom.

“The intense emotions caused by the ongoing genocide (in Gaza) should be expressed through creative and lawful actions which will advance the Palestinian struggle for freedom and justice,” it said in a statement.

BDS was commenting on reports of seven cases of fast food restaurants being defaced with boycott-related graffiti linked to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Selangor police chief Hussein Omar Khan said these incidents took place in the state between May 28 and 31.

Four cases happened in Sungai Buloh, two in Petaling Jaya, and one in Kajang, where Israeli flags were also pasted on the premises.

BDS said Malaysians are encouraged to exercise their constitutional right to boycott companies and brands listed on the official BDS boycott list.

However, their action should be carried out in full compliance with the law, avoiding any destructive or abusive behaviour towards individuals or property.

In a statement yesterday, McDonald’s managing director Azmir Jaafar said acts of vandalism on signboards, billboards and at many of its restaurants nationwide had “escalated in frequency and severity”.

Azmir said these actions caused significant harm and distress to their staff and the surrounding community too.

While he respects the right to express views, he urged everyone to refrain from damaging property.

Previously, religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar advised those participating in boycotts to avoid “excessive and extreme” actions in their campaign.

Perlis mufti Asri Zainul Abidin had also cautioned against vandalising public or private property, saying that under shariah law, those who damage the property of others without justified reason must rectify the harm caused.