Malaysia has removed more than 457,000 online gambling-related posts and blocked 1,778 gambling websites during the first five months of 2025. Authorities continue to strengthen enforcement against illegal online content.
The figures were disclosed by the Communications Ministry in a written parliamentary reply. This highlights ongoing cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), internet service providers, and law enforcement agencies.
Gambling Content Removal Nears 98%
The ministry said 457,562 gambling-related posts were removed between January 1 and May 31, 2025. This represents 98% of the 467,772 content takedown requests submitted during the period.
The requests followed proactive monitoring by the MCMC as well as referrals from enforcement agencies. Internet service providers also blocked 1,778 gambling websites at the commission’s request.
According to the ministry, responsibility for gambling offences primarily rests with the police under the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953. Meanwhile, the MCMC supports investigations through website blocking and digital enforcement under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Online Safety Act 2025.
Scam Content Also Targeted
The ministry reported that the MCMC submitted 275,787 requests to remove scam-related content between January 1, 2022, and June 30, 2025. The content included fake accounts, impersonation, and other online fraud.
Service providers removed 262,293 posts, equivalent to 95% of all requests. Moreover, authorities also submitted five takedown requests involving financial fraud under the Online Safety Act 2025 during the first half of 2025. All five were successfully actioned.
Government Expands Enforcement Efforts
The ministry said enforcement is supported through a whole-of-government approach involving multiple agencies, including the National Scam Response Centre.
Public awareness also remains a priority. The Safe Internet Campaign has reached 10,303 schools and higher education institutions nationwide. It promotes safer online practices while complementing enforcement efforts against illegal gambling and online scams.
The latest figures demonstrate Malaysia’s continued reliance on content removal, website blocking, and inter-agency cooperation. These measures are used to combat illegal online gambling and other forms of digital fraud.
