Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Government is intensifying efforts to curb the growing threat of online gambling through closer cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Sabah, Datuk James Ratib, said the State views the rise in online gambling activities as a serious issue, particularly due to its negative impact on youths and students.
“Online gambling is not only illegal but also poses significant social, financial and security risks to families and communities,” he said during a courtesy visit by the Sabah MCMC Enforcement team, led by Irwan Mohamed.
James stressed that combating online gambling requires coordinated action between Federal and State enforcement agencies, with MCMC and PDRM playing key roles.
MCMC is responsible for regulating communication networks and platforms, including blocking websites, applications and content that promote or facilitate online gambling.
He said the Ministry supports MCMC’s ongoing efforts to enhance monitoring, blocking illegal websites and working with telecommunications service providers to restrict access to gambling platforms.
Meanwhile, PDRM plays a direct enforcement role through investigations, arrests and prosecutions of syndicates and individuals involved in online gambling activities.
He said close cooperation between MCMC and PDRM is crucial to ensure more comprehensive and effective enforcement, particularly against syndicates operating across borders and using new methods.
In addition to enforcement, James said his Ministry would strengthen digital education and awareness programmes among students, parents and teachers on the risks of online gambling, cyber fraud and internet safety.
Preventive measures through digital literacy, counselling guidance and the reinforcement of positive values would also be prioritised alongside enforcement actions.
The State Government called on all parties, including schools, higher learning institutions, local communities, community leaders and parents, to play an active role in addressing the issue.
Members of the public were encouraged to lodge complaints related to online gambling with MCMC and PDRM through official channels.
James reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with MCMC, PDRM and related agencies to ensure Sabah’s cyber space remains safe, ethical and conducive for education and the future of the younger generation.
CAPTION: James (second left) and the Sabah MCMC Enforcement team, led by Irwan Mohamed (next) after a courtesy visit.
