Politics · Malaysia Bureau
PAS calls for gambling licence policy overhaul, moratorium on new permits
Malaysia's Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party has urged the federal government to conduct a comprehensive review of its gambling licensing framework. The party's information chief suggested authorities should also consider implementing a freeze on new permits.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) has called on Putrajaya to undertake a thorough examination of the country's gambling licence policies, signalling growing concern within the party over current regulatory frameworks governing the sector.
Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, PAS information chief, outlined the party's position during recent discussions on the matter, noting that a policy review was necessary to ensure existing regulations remain appropriate and effective.
Beyond the review recommendation, PAS has also suggested that the federal government consider instituting a moratorium on issuing new gambling licences, citing the need for stricter oversight of the sector.
The call reflects broader debates within Malaysia's political landscape regarding the regulation of gambling activities, with various stakeholders holding differing views on the appropriate balance between revenue considerations and social responsibility concerns.
No immediate government response to PAS's recommendations has been announced, though gambling regulation remains a contentious policy area in Malaysia, where Islamic principles and secular governance frameworks intersect.