Malaysian Officials Use Government Bank to Attack Online Gambling

Malaysian police have enlisted the national bank to help in attempts to stop online gambling, a plan which has not worked either in the US or other countries which have tried it.

Malaysian authorities, in the middle of a gambling crackdown nationwide, are turning their attention to online gambling, and plan on using the resources of the country's central bank to deter Internet wagering. According to national press service Bernama, the Home Ministry will act in concert with Bank Negara to find ways to prevent gaming at online casinos.

Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said the police have already raided almost 3000 locations to shut down gambling activity since the first of the year. He also noted 2600 arrests have been made.

"Online gambling is a serious matter and if left unchecked, it could give rise to other crimes such as illegal money lending, snatch theft, gangsterism and robbery," said the minister. No evidence was given to support his assertions.

Incidents of Internet gaming have increased in Malaysia as underground gambling halls have been shut down. The Home Ministry says 2500 online gambling websites have been identified.

The bank is expected to attempt methods blocking the transfer of funds to and from gambling sites, a tactic which has failed miserably in the US and other countries.