KKCCCI urges stricter enforcement, multi-agency cooperation to curb online gambling

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 7): The Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKCCCI) has voiced full support for the Sabah government’s proactive efforts to curb online gambling and other forms of internet abuse, led by State Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk James Ratib.

Its president Datuk Michael Lui said the chamber, together with its eight affiliated educational institutions comprising kindergartens as well as primary and secondary schools, welcomed and commended the state government’s firm stance against the growing threat of online gambling.

Lui said the harmful effects of online gambling extends beyond youths, severely affecting their physical and mental well-being as well as future prospects, and have increasingly spread among adults.

“It has caused financial distress, family breakdowns and even business closures among entrepreneurs.

“This is a serious social issue that requires firm and decisive action,” he said in a statement.

He called on the authorities to impose strict penalties on offenders in accordance with existing laws, while urging the government to strengthen policies and enhance cross-departmental cooperation to address the root causes of the proliferation of online gambling.

Lui said KKCCCI stands ready to cooperate fully with the ministry’s efforts, including promoting cybersecurity and financial literacy education through its affiliated schools, as well as raising awareness among member businesses on the dangers of online gambling.

“These efforts are essential to building a healthy, safe and sustainable social and business environment,” he said.

In his capacity as president of the Sabah United Chinese Chambers of Commerce (SUCCC), Lui stressed that society must move beyond moral persuasion and adopt a systematic, multi-layered approach to counter the escalating threat of online gambling.

He outlined four key priority measures ― stricter regulation and enforcement against online gambling platforms; payment channels and advertising; targeted education and awareness campaigns across schools, religious institutions, community centres and workplaces; the establishment of comprehensive support and intervention services such as counselling hotlines and rehabilitation programmes; and the implementation of an integrated national strategy involving coordinated efforts at both federal and state levels.

As an organisation committed to education, business and community development, he said KKCCCI fully supports closer collaboration between federal and state enforcement agencies, particularly the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).

He said MCMC plays a critical role in regulating communication networks and digital platforms, including blocking websites, applications and content linked to online gambling, while the police are responsible for investigations, arrests and prosecutions against illegal gambling syndicates and individuals.

“Close cooperation between these agencies is crucial, especially as online gambling operations are often cross-border in nature and constantly evolve their methods,” he said.

Lui expressed confidence that only through concerted efforts involving the government, enforcement agencies, educational institutions, the business community and all sectors of society can Sabah effectively curb the spread of online gambling.

“This is vital to protect our younger generation, families and businesses, and to safeguard the stability and prosperity of Sabah,” he said.

Recently, James met with the MCMC Sabah enforcement team to discuss strategies to enhance prevention and enforcement through multi-stakeholder collaboration, reflecting the state government’s serious concern over the issue.

The minister has also stressed that his ministry will intensify educational outreach to students, parents and teachers to raise awareness of the risks of online gambling, online fraud and broader internet safety issues.