‘There may still be another way’: Sanusi signals Kedah will explore legal room to maintain zero-gambling stance

Kedah's Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, has indicated that the state may explore legal avenues to maintain its zero-gambling policy, following the Federal Court's rejection of its appeal against a ruling on gambling licences. Sanusi noted that the government would seek legal advice prior to taking any further action, to ensure compliance with the court's decision and avoid contempt proceedings.

He expressed uncertainty about possible options, stating that God may provide another way. Sanusi also clarified that the state's stance on gambling was based on religious principles, not ethnicity, and rejected accusations of denying rights to non-Muslims. The Federal Court dismissed Kedah's application for leave to appeal against a Court of Appeal ruling on August 12, which found the state's directive was beyond its legal powers and inconsistent with the Federal Constitution.