KUCHING: The government is drafting laws to tackle illegal online gambling, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
"At federal level, the government is drafting a law to address illegal gambling. God-willing, we hope to table it in the next Parliament session.
"Illegal gambling, if left unchecked, can affect social well-being, especially among the younger generation. That is why the government is treating this matter seriously," he said when met by reporters after the presentation of the annual grant to the Village Development and Security Committees in the Petra Jaya parliamentary constituency here on Saturday (Feb 15).
Fadillah said the proposed law has not been given a name and is being reviewed, including if it will be a new, standalone act or incorporated as amendments to existing legislation such as the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953.
He said once enacted, the law would strengthen enforcement mechanism and allow more effective action by the police and other relevant authorities.
In November 2025, Sarawak police said efforts to curb online gambling were how to block access to such platforms, especially from mobile devices.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah said a new approach was needed, including closer collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd to enhance system-blocking measures. – Bernama
