KUANTAN: Malaysia loses an estimated RM700mil each year due to electricity theft linked to cryptocurrency mining, says Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad.
The Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister said cryptocurrency mining was detected not only in business premises but also in residential areas, urging homeowners to be vigilant about tenants as they may be held responsible too.
"Homeowners are advised to transfer Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) electricity accounts to tenants so any issues related to electricity usage or offences are borne by the actual users," he told reporters after Ops Steal here on Tuesday (May 5).
In the integrated operation involving the Energy Commission and TNB, two houses were inspected and suspected of engaging in electricity theft, with losses estimated at about RM34,000 per month, potentially exceeding RM200,000 over six months.
Both cases are being investigated under Section 37(3) of the Electricity Supply Act 1990.
Abdul Rahman said electricity theft is highly dangerous and poses a significant fire risk, noting that illegal cable connections that do not meet Energy Commission safety standards.
He added that the use of multiple high-powered mining machines could lead to short circuits and fires.
At the same time, he urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. – Bernama
