Explained: Kedah’s bid to stop lotteries reaches Federal Court today; here’s what it’s about

The Kedah state government in Malaysia is seeking permission from the Federal Court to continue an appeal, aiming to prevent lotteries from operating within the state. These lotteries, known as "toto," "4D," or "number forecast operators," have been unable to open physical outlets in Kedah since 2023, despite possessing federal business licenses.

Previously, the Court of Appeal ruled that the Kedah government's refusal to renew premises licenses for these lotteries in 2023 was unconstitutional and irrational, overturning Kedah's decision and ordering the assessment of compensation for losses incurred. However, the Kedah government plans to appeal this decision at the Federal Court, arguing that its appeal should be heard based on six legal questions, while lottery companies argue against granting leave to continue the appeal.