Penang, Malaysia – May 22, 2025
The Online Gambling Crackdown Malaysia campaign has escalated, with Penang authorities confirming that more than 150 mule accounts have been frozen, linked to transactions totaling over RM32 million. These accounts were used by illegal online gambling syndicates to funnel funds through digital platforms and avoid detection.
The ongoing Online Gambling Crackdown Malaysia is being spearheaded under the national operation known as Ops Dadu, targeting organized gambling rings, digital fraud, and cybercrime networks through financial forensics, raids, and cross-agency cooperation.
Ops Dadu Powers Malaysia’s Online Gambling Crackdown
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow addressed the Penang State Legislative Assembly, emphasizing the state’s efforts under the Online Gambling Crackdown Malaysia. In response to questions from Joseph Ng Soon Siang (DAP – Air Itam), Chow reported the following enforcement results:
- 2023: 2,681 arrests and 1,390 charges
- 2024: 1,810 arrests and 1,084 charges
- Jan–Mar 2025: 542 arrests and 255 charges
“Police are conducting ongoing operations like Ops Dadu to cripple gambling and scam syndicates,” Chow stated in direct response to the inquiry. He emphasized that authorities have maintained continuous pressure on these illegal groups through frequent raids and coordinated crackdowns, according to a report by New Straits Times.
Digital Blocks and Infrastructure Disruptions
The Online Gambling Crackdown Malaysia goes beyond arrests. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has blocked over 6,300 gambling websites and deactivated more than 212,000 mobile numbers used to distribute gambling-related spam.
Additionally, enforcement teams have cut off utility services such as electricity and water to premises discovered hosting illegal gambling operations.
Platform Accountability and Public Awareness
The government is also focusing on digital platform accountability. Chow called for the implementation of compulsory licensing for social media platforms operating in Malaysia and urged companies to deploy artificial intelligence tools to better identify and remove gambling-related content.
Public outreach programs are underway, targeting schools and online users to raise awareness about the risks and legal consequences of engaging in illegal gambling activities.
Continued Commitment to Online Gambling Crackdown Malaysia
As syndicates become more sophisticated, Chow reiterated that Penang will remain committed to supporting national enforcement agencies. Through the continued efforts of Ops Dadu and inter-agency cooperation, the Online Gambling Crackdown Malaysia will persist in protecting citizens from the growing threats of digital gambling fraud.
