PAS Wing Calls Gambling a “Virus in Society” and Urges Tougher Government Action

The PAS Supporters’ Assembly has called on the Malaysian government to take tougher action against gambling, warning that easier access is turning it into a wider social problem.

Its chairman, B. Kumaresan, said gambling no longer takes place only at premises or number-prediction counters. It is also available through gaming machines and online services accessed by mobile phones, allowing people to gamble at any time.

“Gambling is not the right of non-Muslims. Gambling is a virus in society. DHPP asks the government to control, educate and protect society from this gambling problem,” Kumaresan said during the winding-up of the PAS president’s policy address at the party’s 72nd annual assembly in Pengkalan Chepa, Kelantan.

He said the consequences extend beyond lost money to family problems, debt burdens and damage to social well-being. PAS has separately called for state governments to receive clearer legal authority to impose stricter policies on gambling premises, including through amendments to federal law. That demand was among the main proposals submitted by the PAS Baling division and accepted without debate at the assembly.

Kumaresan also said DHPP wants to play a more strategic role as a bridge between PAS and non-Muslims nationwide. He said PAS’s struggle was intended for all Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, and was based on justice, well-being and the concept of mercy for all.

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Gambling is not the right of non-Muslims. Gambling is a virus in society. DHPP asks the government to control, educate and protect society from this gambling problem.