Focus on keeping Muslims from gambling, Ramkarpal tells Sanusi

DAP leader Ramkarpal Singh has rebuked Kedah Menteri Besar Sanusi Nor for seeking alternative methods to ban gambling in the state, despite the Federal Court's rejection of the government's appeal for leave to appeal a ruling on gambling licences. Singh urged Sanusi, a PAS leader, to focus on preventing Muslims from engaging in gambling, rather than trying to circumvent the court's decision.

He emphasized that since the court's decision has been made, Sanusi should accept that licensed gambling activities are legal and there is no need to find ways to avoid them. The DAP legal bureau chief stated in a statement that Sanusi should follow the court's decision, as it is not his responsibility to find ways to circumvent it.

While Sanusi had promised to consult legal advisers to avoid contempt of court, Singh warned that a complete ban on gambling would only push demand towards illegal black-market syndicates and online platforms. He advised Sanusi to accept that licensed gambling is a part of Malaysian life, and licenses for gambling-related businesses are permitted under the Federal Constitution, as it does not offend the sensibilities of non-Muslims in the country.

The Federal Court dismissed the Kedah government's attempt to overturn a ruling that prohibited the state administration from refusing to renew licences for pool betting and lottery operators on August 12.