Malaysian court rejects Kedah’s bid to block renewal of gaming licences

Judges have ruled that the state overstepped its powers, reaffirming federal authority over pool betting and lottery regulation.


Malaysia.- The Court of Appeal has rejected an attempt by the Kedah state government to reinstate its decision not to renew business premises licences for pool betting and lottery operators. In a 2–1 majority ruling, the court found that the move was unconstitutional and encroached on federal powers.

The case stems from Kedah’s decision to stop renewing licences from January 1 2023, effectively shutting down pool betting and lottery outlets in the state. Justices Faizah Jamaludin and Lim Hock Leng ruled that the non-renewal policy lacked a legal basis and that pool betting and lottery licensing fall under the authority of the federal Ministry of Finance, which issues and regulates licences under the Pool Betting Act.

As such, the state’s action had the effect of overriding the finance minister’s powers and imposing a blanket ban. Justice Faizah said this created a direct conflict between state and federal authority. No costs were awarded


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Judges have ruled that the state overstepped its powers, reaffirming federal authority over pool betting and lottery regulation. Malaysia.- The Court of Appeal has rejected an attempt by the Kedah…


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