WITH advanced technology, the gaming sector in Malaysia has grown by leaps and bounds.
Years ago, people played games the traditional way, with a deck of cards or tiles of mahjong to while away their leisure time.
Today, the gaming industry is a “lifestyle” thing. It is a business.
The 2019 Budget announced a hike in gaming taxes (such as duties on casino are raised to 35 per cent of the gross income; on “dealer” machines raised to RM50,000 annually from RM10,000; and, gambling machines raised to 30 per cent on gross collections).
Other forms of gaming here are horse race betting at turf clubs (Ipoh, Sungai Besi and Penang), slot machines at some sports/social clubs, and 4D outlets.
The hike is a way for the government to reduce gambling among the public and increase revenue for the government.
According to the Asian Journal of Gambling, gambling is an addiction. The journal stated that a gambling disorder would affect a person’s life and family.
NOOR FADZILLAH ABDULLAH
Faculty of Economics and Muamalat, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia