Malaysia Moves to Tighten Gambling Laws with Expanded Police Powers to Combat Online and Illegal Betting

The Malaysian government is preparing new legislation aimed at curbing illegal gambling, with plans to grant expanded enforcement powers to police in response to growing concerns over both online and land-based betting activities.

Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof confirmed that authorities are currently drafting the proposed law and intend to present it during the upcoming parliamentary session.

“At the federal level, the government is drafting a law to address illegal gambling. We hope to table it in the next session of Parliament. Illegal gambling, if left unchecked, can affect social well-being, especially among our younger generation. That is why the government is treating this matter seriously,” he said.

Fadillah explained that the legal framework and procedures are still under development, and officials have yet to determine whether the new provisions will be introduced as amendments to the existing Common Gaming Houses Act 1953 or enacted as entirely new legislation once all formal requirements are completed.

Under the current 1953 law, gaming is defined as “the playing of any game of chance or of mixed chance and skill for money or money’s worth.” Offenders found violating the law currently face fines ranging from RM5,000 to RM100,000, equivalent to approximately US$25,560, as well as possible prison sentences.

According to Fadillah, the central objective of the new legislation is to strengthen enforcement capabilities and clarify police authority when dealing with illegal gambling operations.

“The way forward is to strengthen laws so the police will have clearer powers to take action, alongside enforcement authority at the local council level,” he said.

The push for stronger regulations follows mounting concern over a sharp rise in illegal gambling, particularly through online platforms and social media channels. Data released by the Ministry of Communications in 2025 revealed that Facebook was responsible for around 93 per cent of reported illegal gambling advertisements.

Earlier this year, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail also emphasised the urgency of reform, stating that existing gambling laws must be updated to reflect modern technological realities, including the use of social media platforms and digital payment systems to facilitate illegal betting.

The planned legislation reflects growing pressure on the Malaysian government to introduce modern regulatory measures capable of addressing the evolving nature of gambling, particularly as online platforms and financial technology continue to reshape how illegal betting operates.

By fLEXI tEAM