PETALING JAYA: Illegal gaming operators will capitalise on Kedah’s decision not to renew the licences of 4-digit outlets in the state, a criminologist warned.

Universiti Sains Malaysia’s P Sundramoorthy said these illegal bookies would be difficult to trace.

“The 4-digit black market will thrive as more punters will patronise these operators,” he told FMT.

Sundramoorthy said these bookies have become more structured and operate platforms that are similar to legitimate online casinos, and are difficult to detect and eliminate.

Besides the loss of tax revenue from the legal 4D outlets, he said, those in the black market will try to bribe corrupt authorities that are responsible for keeping them away.

In some countries, these illegal operators have also succeeded in corrupting political figures, he said.

Sundramoorthy said the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and the communications regulators must monitor the impact of banning 4D shops in Kedah.

“All undesirable outcomes of banning legal 4D operators must be prevented,” he said.

Yesterday, it was reported that gaming shops will no longer be allowed to operate in PAS-led Kedah effective Jan 1 following the state government’s decision not to renew the licences of these premises.

Menteri besar Sanusi Md Nor had announced a ban on 4D and gaming shops throughout the state on Nov 14, 2021, and ordered local councils not to renew their annual business licences.

A reprieve was given later, with licences not to be renewed after Dec 31, 2022 as federal approvals for 4D shops were in effect until then.

This article first appeared on FMT.