The Malaysian Home Minister has acknowledged that illegal gambling activities are patronized by political figures.
According to local media, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail pointed out that “political patronage towards these gambling players (in the country) exists, providing influence and protection for corruption and bribery within the gambling sector. Consequently, the online gambling players are being protected by political masters, so no action can be taken against them.”
The official also noted that the police are well aware of the strategies taken by these gambling operators.
However, leaked information has impeded serious actions against them. The minister also acknowledged that this issue is the most challenging for the ministry, police, and government.
The Malaysian gaming law has been in place for 70 years, since its enactment in 1953, and authorities lack provisions to address online gambling activities effectively, notes the official. Violators can avoid significant criminal charges by taking advantage of this legal loophole.
The Malaysian Home Minister noted that a total of 2,119 gambling websites were blocked from 2021 until last month.
