Sanusi hints at ‘way forward’ to uphold Kedah gambling ban

Kedah's Chief Minister, Sanusi Nor, has suggested that the state government may still have options to enforce its zero-gambling policy despite the Federal Court ruling. Following the court's denial of the state's appeal to overturn a ban on renewing licences for gambling operators, Sanusi indicated that further action would require legal assessment to avoid contempt of court.

He acknowledged that the lawyers would outline the implications and constraints, emphasizing that there could still be a way to uphold the policy. Utusan Malaysia reported his comments after a meeting in Baling, where he expressed optimism that a solution could be found.

Sanusi also stated that the issuance of new gambling licences depended on supply and demand, suggesting that if there was no interest or demand for gambling, there would be no need to open such establishments. He addressed concerns about potential discrimination against non-Muslims, asserting that the policy should not be seen as singling out any community, and noted that Muslims might still have access to gambling if allowed.

The Federal Court's decision on August 12 rejected the Kedah government's attempt to reverse a ruling that prevented it from refusing to renew licences for pool betting and lottery operators.