Influencers who promote online gambling platforms risk facing legal consequences as authorities intensify scrutiny of digital content, according to concerns raised by consumer advocates.
As reported by The Star, the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) warned that social media personalities could inadvertently become “active accomplices” to illegal gambling syndicates.
FOMCA Vice President Datuk Indrani Thuraisingham said many content creators may not realize that accepting sponsorships from gambling-related platforms could potentially expose them to criminal liability. She noted that gambling content is no longer confined to obscure websites but is increasingly embedded in mainstream social media feeds, often disguised as entertainment, gaming content or “easy money” opportunities.
While Malaysia’s gambling laws, including the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953 and the Betting Act 1953, were enacted decades before the digital era, enforcement authorities are increasingly relying on provisions under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 to address online promotions. Indrani welcomed ongoing efforts to introduce more comprehensive legislation aimed at closing enforcement gaps in cyber-gambling.
Legal experts have echoed the need for updated laws. Lawyer Joshua Kong said clearer prohibitions on online gambling and advertising would give authorities stronger enforcement tools. Relying on legislation drafted in 1953 to address crimes in 2026, he noted, risks allowing offenders to exploit legal ambiguities.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching recently cautioned that promoting or encouraging gambling could constitute an offense under existing laws. Authorities have stepped up cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and police to remove gambling-related content, while urging social media platforms to strengthen monitoring to curb its spread.
Malaysia’s gambling laws date back to 1953, long before the rise of social media and online betting platforms
