Business · Malaysia Bureau
Finance Ministry affirms no new gambling licences under Madani administration
The Finance Ministry has clarified that no new gambling licences have been issued since the Pakatan Harapan-led Madani government took office, addressing recent statements from Kedah's leadership on the matter.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — The Finance Ministry moved to set the record straight on gambling licensing policy, confirming that no fresh gambling licences have been granted under the current Madani administration. The clarification came in response to recent remarks from Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor regarding gambling operations in the northern state.
The ministry's statement underscores the federal government's position on gambling regulation and licensing, which remains a sensitive policy area in Malaysia's plural society. The matter also touches on the jurisdiction between federal and state authorities in overseeing gaming operations.
Kedah, like several other Malaysian states, operates state-sponsored gaming activities. The Finance Ministry's clarification suggests coordination between federal authorities and state governments on any gambling-related matters, though regulatory oversight remains divided between the two levels of government.
The Madani administration, which took office in late 2022, has signalled commitment to maintaining existing policy frameworks while addressing governance concerns raised during the previous administration.