Malaysia Drafts New Law to Combat Illegal Online Gambling

Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof confirmed that a bill is currently being drafted and could be tabled as early as the next sitting of the Dewan Rakyat.

“At the federal level, the government is drafting a law to address illegal gambling. Insya-Allah, we hope to table it in the next session of Parliament,” he told reporters following a community event in Petra Jaya.

Stronger Enforcement Framework Under Review

The proposed legislation, which has yet to be formally named, is still under policy review. Authorities are evaluating whether to introduce a new standalone act or amend existing statutes such as the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, potentially integrating updated provisions to reflect the digital environment.

According to Fadillah, the primary objective is to reinforce enforcement mechanisms targeting illegal online gambling operators, equipping police and regulatory bodies with more effective tools to disrupt and deter unlawful activity.

The initiative reflects growing federal attention on the rapid expansion of digital gambling channels, which have proven more difficult to monitor and block than traditional land-based operations.

Focus on Youth Protection and Digital Controls

Fadillah emphasized the social risks posed by unregulated gambling, particularly among younger demographics. The government views the legislative effort as part of a broader strategy to mitigate harm, improve digital oversight, and safeguard vulnerable communities.

Law enforcement leaders have previously highlighted technical challenges in restricting access to offshore gambling websites. In November, Sarawak Police Commissioner Mohamad Zainal Abdullah called for enhanced coordination between enforcement agencies and digital regulators.

He urged closer collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd to strengthen website-blocking systems and digital monitoring capabilities.

For the regional gaming sector, the proposed law signals a more assertive regulatory stance against illegal operators, while reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to tightening digital governance frameworks. Industry observers will be closely watching the upcoming parliamentary session for further details on the scope and structure of the bill.