Malaysia Blocks 4,799 Gambling Sites From 2018 To October 2021

Illustration (Pixabay)

JAKARTA - The Malaysian Ministry of Communication and Multimedia (KKMM) has blocked 4,799 gambling sites on the internet from 2018 to 31 October 2021.

The blocking was carried out at the request of the police for violating the 1953 Open Gambling House Deed (Deed 289).

This was conveyed by KKMM Deputy Minister Zahidi Zainul Abidin in parliament on Monday when responding to a question from MP Mohd. Nizar.

"To stem online gambling, the ministry always cooperates with the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) in preventive, enforcement, and awareness campaigns," said Zahidi, quoted by Antara, Monday, November 15.

Zahidi also explained the various efforts carried out in overcoming the issue of spam messages promoting online gambling.

KKMM has asked the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Committee (SKMM) to conduct an audit of data validation of prepaid telephone subscribers to ensure that all active numbers are authorized according to the rules.

"This is important to prevent numbers from being misused by irresponsible parties for criminal purposes, including fraud and promoting online gambling," he said.

In the same period, a total of 20,025 telephone lines have been disconnected for spreading spam SMS promoting online gambling, unlicensed loans, and others.

"The preventive measure carried out by the ministry through the SKMM is to take action to block access to online gambling websites," said Zahidi.