Gerakan Youth has called for the federal government to reconsider the decision to legalise sports betting operations in Malaysia.

National Gerakan Youth Deputy Chief Oh Tong Keong said that regulating sports betting operations would not curb illegal betting. Instead it will create more unhealthy activities from the activities which are considered healthy for the people.

“Let’s not create an opportunity for our country to develop more unhealthy activities and social problems,”.

“Sports betting not only encourage Ah Longs to gain more opportunity, it causes family incomes to be spent at the incorrect venue,” he added.

Following Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), Selayang City Council (MPS) and Ampang Jaya City Council (MPAJ) to freeze the license of gambling premises which offer sports betting; Oh also urged the Municipal Council of Penang Island to take the same steps.

Also added that sports is one of the activities that unite people and suggested that instead of legalising sports betting, the government should encourage more sports participation in the people for the sake of unity.

“Let us look at the recent Thomas Cup tournament as a good example. Malaysians regardless of race and religion had joined hands together to cheer for our National team. We do not want that one day; Malaysians will be cheering for different countries because of their bets on the respective teams.”