Legal notice: online gambling in Malaysia
- Free Malaysia Today (opens in a new tab) reported that on 18 October 2023, the Court of Appeal ruled online gambling is an offence in Peninsular Malaysia under the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953.
- Malay Mail (opens in a new tab) reported in April 2021 that, according to MCMC, all forms of online gambling and its promotion fall under that Act, with the police as the enforcing body.
- The Star (opens in a new tab) reported that MCMC blocked 6,381 online gambling sites from 2020 to the end of 2022.
This site does not say that online gambling is legal in Malaysia. Rules differ by state and religion; for example, Muslims are prohibited from gambling under syariah law. This summary is not legal advice. Consult a qualified lawyer if you are unsure.
Warning signs of problem gambling
- Betting more to get the same excitement.
- Chasing losses with the next deposit.
- Borrowing money or using bill money to gamble.
- Hiding gambling from family.
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop.
Our article on the signs and where to get help explains each sign in more depth.
Setting limits
- Set a monthly budget you can afford to lose completely.
- Set a time limit and use a phone alarm.
- Do not gamble when stressed, angry or drunk.
- 12CUCI's responsible gaming page claims deposit limits, session limits and self-exclusion from one month to lifetime. Ask for them in writing.
- Consider gambling-blocking apps on your phone and computer.
Get help
- Befrienders KL: 03-7627 2929, 24 hours, confidential emotional support (befrienders.org.my (opens in a new tab))
- Find a Helpline: a list of gambling helplines in Malaysia (findahelpline.com (opens in a new tab))
- Gambling Therapy: free online support in several languages (gamblingtherapy.org (opens in a new tab))
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.