Is Gambling Allowed in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, gambling is not permitted in all state and sub-state areas. While gaming is banned in the federal government area of Kuala Lumpur (Starbuck’s Law) and in some other cities within the National Development Corporation (DPM) area, it is tolerated in other areas. In Putrajaya, for example, gambling is banned by law but tolerated in some areas of the Satun, Taman Harum, and Bintang districts. In Langkawi, lottery and casino games are restricted in the Central Business District (CBD), while PTEs or Private Schools exist in most of the rural areas.

In Cameron Highlands, for example, gambling is strictly prohibited, but PTEs are allowed to operate their businesses. The law allows for “gambling fairs” in some areas, but these are usually in remote locations. It is, however, possible to book a hotel in Cameron Highlands, book a restaurant in Cameron Highlands, and open a sports bar in Cameron Highlands. There are also some shopping malls in Cameron Highlands, though they are not fully functioning due to lack of licensing. All these kinds of businesses need to apply for a special permit from the Lottery and Gaming Commission (LGC).

Is gambling permitted in Malaysia? Not without a license, that is. In the cities of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Petaling Jaya, you may get in trouble for organizing or enjoying a gambling event if you have not secured a gambling license from the authorities. You may also face prosecution under articles 4 and 5 of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1960, which prohibit the possession and sale of all drugs except those specifically provided for in the act.

Although the law allows for freedom of speech and assembly, there are still many local Thai-based groups that incite the use of force and violence against opponents, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and even government officials and journalists who may criticize the government. The Malaysian Bar Association (MBA) and the Malaysian Bar council (MBC) have been conducting seminars to educate people on the norms and standards of good gambling and to draw the lines between permissible gambling and unacceptable gambling activity. Although the law allows freedom of expression, it does not include freedom of association. The seminars also discourage people from associating with individuals or groups that engage in ‘unlawful conduct.’

Are there any national organizations that promote gaming and gambling clubs? The best way to find such associations is to check the local directory. The law specifies that all associations involved in the promotion or operation of gambling must register with the Attorney General’s office. The Attorney General’s office monitors the activities of all licensed gambling clubs. All associations found to be in violation of the law are automatically dissolved.

Can you go to Malaysia and gamble if you don’t have a resident visa? Yes, you can. But there are some restrictions to staying in Malaysia for gambling purposes. Visitors who are in the legal business of gambling need to apply for a business license upon arrival in Malaysia. Non-residents of Malaysia cannot enter the country for the purpose of gambling, unless they obtain a valid visitor visa.

Is gambling allowed in Malaysia like it is in other countries? Not under any circumstances. Although there is no legal restriction on playing cards, it is highly advisable not to carry your card games and/or slots with you while visiting Malaysia. The risk of becoming entangled in the law is too great. Visitors who fail to keep their cards and/or slots in proper sleeves and containers can be arrested and prosecuted under the anti-gambling laws of various countries including Malaysia. The same is true about gambling devices.

Is gambling allowed in Malaysia as part of the culture? Malaysia is a Muslim country and traditionally non-gambling is practiced. While some areas in Malaysia like Penang have placed a ban on all forms of gambling, the general practice is not fully acceptable in the country as a whole. However, it is accepted that the government has the control and will take action against those who are found to be indulging in such activities.

source https://trustedmalaysia.casino/is-gambling-allowed-in-malaysia-2/