The Malaysian Islamist Party (PAS) has pledged to close all gambling establishments in Malaysia, including the country’s largest casino in Genting Highlands, if it wins control of the state of Pahang in the next general election. SkyCasino, located in Genting Highlands, is Southeast Asia’s largest casino. Andansura Rabu, PAS deputy commissioner for Pahang, stated, “Anything that can be harmful to our society needs to be eradicated together, including gambling.” He emphasised that gambling is not permitted by any religion and urged Pahang residents to support PAS if they oppose gambling.
Background
The issue of gambling in Malaysia is complex, involving both state and federal jurisdictions. While PAS aims to shut down gambling premises in Pahang, including the Genting Highlands casino, the power to do so may not lie entirely with the state government. The federal government controls casino and gaming permits and strictly regulates the gaming sector. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has previously stated that there will not be a second casino in the country. Genting’s casino contributed nearly RM5 billion (S$1.5 billion) annually to the government’s coffers before the pandemic, according to a report by UOB Kay Hian, a Singapore-based brokerage.
State or federal level
Andansura acknowledged that the decision to close the Genting Highlands casino might require federal government approval. “It might require a federal government decision, so we might not be able to shut it down,” he said. However, he added that if it turns out that the state government has the authority, PAS would proceed with the closure. This means that even if PAS does not win the overall general election, they would still pursue their plans if they form a majority in the Pahang state government and if the law permits it.
Eradicate “anything that can be harmful” to society
The federal government’s control over casino and gaming permits means that any significant changes to the gambling landscape would likely need federal approval. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s stance against opening a second casino aligns with PAS’s conservative views. PAS emerged as the single biggest party in Malaysia’s parliament after the 2022 election, although they did not manage to form a government. The party’s growing influence has pushed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to adopt more conservative positions to appeal to voters. During their 70th Central Annual Muktamar (conference), PAS reiterated its intention to eradicate “anything that can be harmful” to society.
Future implications
If PAS succeeds in capturing Pahang in the next general election, scheduled to be held by early 2028, the future of the Genting Highlands casino could be at risk. PAS currently controls four of Malaysia’s 13 states and aims to add Pahang to its list. The closure of the casino would have significant economic implications, given its substantial contribution to government revenue. The outcome of the next general election will be crucial in determining the future of gambling in Malaysia and the potential impact on the country’s economy.
