The Malaysian government has found an ally in its fight against illegal online gambling and scams, with messaging app Telegram platform saying it is willing to work with the country.
Previously, Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov met with Malaysian Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil in Dubai.
Asia Gaming Brief reported that the meeting highlighted growing concerns about scams and illegal gambling activities on the platform.
The country's Communications and Multimedia Commission said Telegram promised to take an important step in combating cyber threats.
The communication adds that this collaboration is intended to make regulatory measures aimed at protecting users more efficient, while developing new mechanisms and procedures to identify and respond to online risks.
According to reports, Telegram’s anonymity and message encryption capabilities make it an ideal choice for some people seeking to engage in illegal activities, including gambling and fraud.
Telegram, used by most Malaysians, will work with the Malaysian government to combat online gambling and scams
According to Statista, Telegram is the largest messaging software in Malaysia in 2022. .
Followed closely by WhatsApp, Messenger, and WeChat.
Asia Gaming Brief also reported that 15 million Malaysians use Telegram.
Malaysia bans online gambling
Malaysia's Public Casinos Act 1953 prohibits online gambling.
Under the law, illegal gambling carries a maximum fine of RM100,000 (approximately €19,500) and a minimum jail term of six months.
Meanwhile, Malaysia's Gambling Act 1953 prohibits all forms of illegal gambling unless the company has a legal operating license, which covers telecommunications and/or other means of transmitting bets between customers and bookmakers.
Those who violate the law face a fine of RM200,000 (€39,000) and five years in prison.
