Malaysia Blocks 457,562 Gambling Posts in 2025

Malaysia has removed 457,562 online posts linked to gambling and blocked 1,778 gambling websites between January 1 and May 31, 2025. The figures were disclosed by the Communications Ministry in a written parliamentary reply, stating that the actions were carried out through service providers under the direction of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

Majority of Removal Requests Completed

According to the ministry, the 457,562 removed posts accounted for 98% of the 467,772 takedown requests submitted during the period. These requests resulted from both proactive monitoring by the MCMC and referrals from enforcement authorities.

The ministry also confirmed that internet service providers blocked 1,778 gambling-related websites following MCMC instructions. The parliamentary response, published on July 16, answered a question from Datuk Dr. Richard Rapu regarding blocked gambling advertisements and enforcement against online gambling operators.

Officials noted that responsibility for gambling-related offences primarily falls under the Royal Malaysia Police through the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953. The MCMC continues to support investigations by blocking websites under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Online Safety Act 2025.

Scam-Related Content Also Targeted

In a separate parliamentary response, the ministry revealed that the MCMC had requested the removal of 275,787 scam-related online posts between January 1, 2022, and June 30, 2025. These included fraudulent accounts and impersonation cases.

Service providers removed 262,293 of those posts, representing 95% of all requests submitted. The ministry said the same enforcement process is also used to tackle online scams beyond gambling-related activity.

Additionally, five content removal requests connected to financial fraud were issued under the Online Safety Act 2025 between January 1 and June 30 this year, with all five successfully completed.

Government Continues Coordinated Enforcement

The ministry stated that efforts to combat online fraud and illegal gambling are supported through cooperation across multiple government agencies. It highlighted the National Scam Response Centre as one of the key initiatives assisting enforcement.

Officials also noted that the Safe Internet Campaign has reached 10,303 schools and higher education institutions nationwide, aiming to improve public awareness of online safety and digital fraud.

Enforcement Efforts Remain Ongoing

The latest figures demonstrate Malaysia's continued focus on reducing illegal online gambling and scam-related content through website blocking, content removal and inter-agency cooperation. Authorities also continue to strengthen public awareness initiatives alongside enforcement measures to improve online safety across the country.