In response to the Gaza conflict and U.S. support for Israel, Malaysia took a unique approach by not only boycotting McDonald’s but also creating its own alternative. Entrepreneur Lailatul Sarahjana Mohd Ismail launched Ahmad’s Fried Chicken, a local fast-food chain that quickly gained popularity among Malaysian consumers seeking to support homegrown brands and show solidarity with Palestine.
Starting as a small venture, Ahmad’s Fried Chicken has expanded rapidly, now operating 35 outlets across the country. This growth reflects a broader trend in Malaysia, where consumers increasingly favor local businesses over international chains. Homegrown brands such as Ahmad’s Fried Chicken and Zus Coffee are reshaping Malaysia’s food landscape, demonstrating the rising influence and sustainability of locally developed chains in the fast-food and café sectors.
