Kuala Lumpur:The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has removed 724,879 online gambling-related items, which accounts for 98% of the 738,372 takedown requests submitted from January 1, 2025, to October 31, 2026. This was revealed by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching during a session at the Dewan Rakyat.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MCMC, in collaboration with service providers and relevant enforcement agencies, also blocked 2,603 gambling websites during the same period. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) acts as the main enforcement agency under the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, while MCMC handles regulatory actions under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Online Safety Act 2025.

Teo Nie Ching was responding to questions regarding MCMC's technological capability to detect and block online gambling operations. She highlighted that MCMC provides essential support to PDRM, including investigative assistance and digital forensic analysis, and took part in operations such as Op JOL and Op Soga XI to combat illegal gambling activities linked to events like the FIFA World Cup 2026.

During the first seven months of 2026, MCMC blocked 573 gambling websites and removed 253,424 gambling-related items, working closely with service providers. In response to calls for stricter measures to block financial transactions related to online gambling, Teo mentioned that a proposal to enhance cooperation with Bank Negara Malaysia and other entities is under consideration.

Furthermore, MCMC is tackling the misuse of Fake Base Transceiver Station equipment used for sending mass messages linked to illegal activities through operations like Op Pancing and Op Delusi. While MCMC does not directly handle arrests or asset seizures, they support police-led enforcement operations in these areas.