ALOR STAR: Licensed gaming companies have praised the High Court's decision to overturn the Kedah state government's ban on their operations, in effect since early last year.
In a joint statement, STM Lottery Sdn Bhd (STM Lottery) and Magnum Corporation Sdn Bhd (Magnum) called the Alor Star High Court's June 20 ruling "a significant ruling that affects our businesses and our community."
STM Lottery's assistant general manager (North) Yip Kok Chyuan said that the court found the Kedah government's ban on renewing business licence for pool betting to be inconsistent with the Federal Constitution.
"Simply put, the local authorities do not have the power to ban licensed pool betting under their business premises licence. This would create a conflict between the state and the federal laws.
"This ruling is crucial for the licensed Number Forecast Operators (NFO). It reinforces the importance of the Federal Constitution and confirms that the state's executive authority cannot exceed legislation power," he said in a press conference here today.
Magnum's regional head, Suy Kok Yik, echoed this sentiment, saying that the ruling provided "immense relief and renewed hope" for agents who faced financial hardships due to the business disruptions.
"For over 17 months, our agents have struggled financially. This decision allows them to rebuild and continue their work with greater stability," Suy said.
The state government's move had impacted 45 agents under Sports Toto, Magnum, and Da Ma Chai, affecting over 100 employees.
Following the court decision, Yip urged the state government to cooperate in renewing the business licences.
"We hope the state government will now work with us to renew the licence for licensed pool betting, allowing our agents to resume their livelihoods," he said.
Despite the High Court ruling, Yip acknowledged the interim stay pending the state government's appeal to the Court of Appeal.
"We will assist our agents to resolve all legal requirements for them to recommence their business.
"As for the reopening (of outlets) wise, we will follow the lawyer's advice on when to reopen them," he said.
Yesterday, Kedah Pas commissioner Datuk Ahmad Yahaya defended the state government's decision, saying that it was within their power to shut down licensed gaming outlets.
The Pokok Sena member of Parliament was reported as saying the closure was done in accordance with the state government's power through the local government, at each district level.
During the Kedah state assembly sitting on Nov 14, 2021, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor announced that Kedah would no longer approve new licensed gaming outlets nor renew existing licences.
Following the decision, all licensed gaming outlets in Kedah were fully ceased by Jan 1 last year.
(hyperlink: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1074367/kedah-pas-defends-dec...)