Malaysia’s government has banned Swatch watches that have rainbow branding.

The ban - enforced the home ministry - is under the provisions of the country’s Printing Presses and Publications Act. The grounds for the ban are that the items could be detrimental to public order, morality, security or could alarm public opinion.

The penalties for not complying the ban include jail and fines. Penalties could be applied for selling, distributing or owning banned materials.

Swatch had been selling rainbow branded watches in Malaysia as part of the company's Pride collection.

The statements from the home ministry of Malaysia confirm that they are targeting rainbow branding as it is seen as a promotion of the LGBTQ community.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Malaysia?

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Malaysia? Let’s take a look at some of the key equality indicators.

Is homosexuality legal in Malaysia?

No. Malaysia retains the colonial-era criminalisation of sodomy that it inherited from Britain.

Punishments could include prison for up to 20 years.

Are there anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Malaysia?

No. There are no protections against discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

Is there Marriage Equality in Malaysia?

No. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a socially conservative country. Homosexuality is a taboo subject.

Homophobia is systemic, and LGBTQ people conceal their sexuality.