Local media reported that the closures were the result of a boycott campaign due to the fast food chain's perceived links to Israel, which caused Malaysians to become alienated from the restaurant chain that has opened its doors in their country since 1973.

Since the start of the war on Gaza, the Malaysians have targeted many international companies by boycotting their goods and services, especially restaurants and some clothing brands, because they are owned by American companies or have a relationship with supporting Israel in its ongoing military attack on Gaza.

QSR (M) Holdings, which operates the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and Pizza Hut franchises in Malaysia, said it had temporarily closed KFC outlets “in response to difficult economic conditions.” The statement did not address media reports.

Source: Monte Carlo International