Do your research before joining boycotts, economist tells Malaysians

Malaysians have been boycotting several companies due to alleged ties with the US and Israel following Israel's ongoing military operation in Gaza. An economist in Malaysia has urged citizens to conduct thorough research before engaging in boycott campaigns, rather than relying on headlines or social media claims. Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff, an economist from Putra Business School, emphasized that Malaysians should verify the facts and consider the broader consequences before deciding to support such boycotts.

He pointed out that BlackRock, an investor in Bursa Malaysia, holds ownership in various companies, including the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), which may raise questions about the wisdom of boycotting all associated entities. Razman noted that none of the companies operating in Malaysia were directly involved in the global injustices being reported, but acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue, especially concerning the impact of boycotts on local workers.

He stressed the importance of fighting injustice while recognizing that many boycott campaigns fade away after a few months. Adnan Lee, the managing director of MBG Fruits, encouraged Malaysians to consider the wider impact of boycotts, highlighting that companies also provide employment for individuals who depend on these jobs to support their families.