Malaysia’s government has announced plans to tighten regulations on online gambling, targeting both operators and players. The new measures include harsher penalties for those caught gambling on unlicensed platforms and stricter requirements for licensed operators.

    

    The Ministry of Finance has also proposed higher taxes on online gambling revenues to boost public funds. Critics warn that these measures could drive more players to offshore platforms, which are difficult to regulate.

    

    Advocacy groups have called for a more balanced approach that includes education and support for problem gamblers. The government is expected to finalize the new regulations by mid-2024.