Explore Malaysia Poker Scene and Legislation

What is the Online Poker and Online Betting Legislation in Malaysia?

While technically illegal, online gambling is overlooked in Malaysia poker for example. Many inhabitants place bets over the Internet every day, and most of the major international betting sites accept customers from Malaysia. They might go as far as processing deposits and withdrawals in ringgits. It’s easy to get paid, make deposits, and play as long as you stick with the major names.

There are actually no specific references to online gambling in the Betting Act, and no relevant amendment has yet been made, so the market remains largely unregulated.

That being said, the Malaysian government does not issue any licenses for online casinos. However, banks are instructed not to sanction transfers to overseas online casinos.

The story is somewhat different for some Internet cafés across Malaysia that have become popular for illegal online and land-based gambling venues. In this case, the government has tried forcing banks to block transactions to and from foreign online poker rooms and has engaged in a number of lawsuits against involved Internet cafes.

Overall, Malaysian police forces are too busy to worry about people playing poker at home on the Internet (or even in private home games). To this day, no local has ever been punished for online poker Malaysia is very unique from this perspective.

However, that doesn’t mean you are completely risk-free in Malaysia, where the number of calls to ban online gambling is increasing.

Is live Poker legal in Malaysia?

Malaysia has two sets of laws regarding gambling in general, which distinguish between Muslims and non-Muslims, regardless of their country of origin.

The most important “secular law” on gambling in Malaysia is the Betting Act of 1953. It has been amended several times as gambling has become more liberalized in the country (in 1958, 1959, 1961, 1989, 1992, and 2006). The Lotteries Act of 1952 allows lotteries to be run, while the Racing Act of 1961 permits betting on horse racing.

As a result, non-Muslim locals (such as Chinese and Indian minorities) and tourists over 21 have access to a fair amount of legal land-based gambling, with the exception of sports gambling, which is prohibited. In this particular example of “unlawful gambling”, gamblers face “a fine not exceeding 5000 ringgit or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or to both.” Two hundred thousand ringgits and 5 years in jail are the price paid by anyone caught operating or patronizing a betting house.

The “religious law” or “Sharia”, on the other hand, considers gambling in Malaysia poker games, for example, to be a serious crime that applies to any Muslim, whether they are local (60% of the population) or foreign. As such, numerous Indonesian and Pakistani men have been arrested for visiting casinos or playing live poker while on holiday.

The penalty for Muslims caught gambling in Malaysia poker play for instance, is a fine up to 3000 ringgits, a 2-year prison sentence, or both. This penalty may vary in different states, of which there are 13 in Malaysia.

It should also be noted that in Malaysia all ethnic Malays are required by law to be Sunni Muslims, which automatically puts them in the category of people who must oblige the religious law of Sharia.

Such a system has, of course, been the subject of countless debate amongst its population. Nothing seems to be written in stone in Malaysia regarding gambling; however, it appears that the government sees the appeal of attracting tourists with casinos.

What Live Poker Venues are in Malaysia?

The only land-based legal option for playing poker in Malaysia is at Casino de Genting. The World Genting resort is located in the mountains, but it is about a one-hour train ride from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. The Chinese population, ethnic minorities, and tourists comprise most of the poker scene there.

The games held in Genting are very limited, as only a few yearly tournaments offer Texas Hold’Em . The first prize for the biggest annual Malaysian poker tournament at the Genting is 50,000 Malaysian ringgits (around 12,000 USD).

Apart from those rare occasions, you will only find Progressive Texas Hold’em (against the dealer with bonus side bets as well) or Three Card Draw events. Genting is also known for providing their own, branded, “Caribbean” stud poker game.

Other tournaments happen in Malaysia, but they are considered illegal. Events like the Poker Malaysia Championship do not even advertise where they will take place until just before the event in order to keep from being shut down.

Finally, 2020 will see the arrival of a second solution for live poker in Malaysia with the maiden voyage of the Crusino, a cruise ship aiming to be the largest casino on the sea. Crusino will measure 295m long by 36m wide and will feature 1,330 rooms to welcome up to 3,200 passengers, including 900 crew members.

Why should you visit Malaysia?

It is definitely worth visiting Malaysia because the country offers many different places to see, a rich mix of cultures, and friendly people. Malaysia is full of exciting adventures, relaxing beaches, and beautiful nature. This beautiful country with many amazing things to see and do. Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity is reflected in its many public holidays. All of them ensure a good opportunity to experience this vivid community. Here are seven wonderful places you should visit when you go there:

1. The Big City ? – Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital city and a must-see destination. You can visit the famous Petronas Twin Towers, which are very tall and shiny. You can walk around the city, explore the Chinatown market, and see the Batu Caves, a large Hindu temple inside a mountain. The city also has many luxury casinos where you can play poker and other gambling games, especially in hotels and resorts like Resorts World Genting.

2.  The Tropical Island? – Langkawi

Langkawi is a gorgeous island with clean beaches and blue water. You can walk on the Sky Bridge, a long bridge high above the ground, and take a cable car to the top of the mountain for an incredible view. It is a perfect place to relax and swim.

3. The Cultural Island? – Penang

Penang has a city called Georgetown, which is on UNESCO’s world heritage list. You can see colorful street art, try delicious food like nasi lemak and satay, and visit the beautiful Kek Lok Si temple, a large Buddhist temple. It is a fun place to explore and learn about different cultures.

4. The Rainforest? – Taman Negara

Taman Negara is Malaysia’s biggest rainforest. It is one of the last large rainforests left. You can go hiking, see waterfalls, and walk on hanging bridges over the trees. It feels like being in a real jungle adventure!

5. Mountains? – The Cameron Highlands and Mulu

In the mountains, the air is cool and fresh. You can visit tea farms in the Cameron Highlands or explore big caves and rainforests in Gunung Mulu National Park. It is a quiet place where you can enjoy nature and relax.

6. Cities and History? – Melaka and Johor Bahru

Melaka has many old buildings from the times when Europeans and Asians lived there. You can see beautiful churches and old houses. Johor Bahru is a city where you can learn about local culture and buy souvenirs.

7. The Beautiful Island? – Tioman Island

Tioman Island has soft sandy beaches and colorful coral reefs. It is a great place to go snorkeling, swim, and relax by the sea.Overall, Malaysia is a country full of wonderful places and exciting experiences, making it a perfect travel destination for everyone.

What are the local festivals ? – Malaysia public holiday calendar

The Malaysia public holiday calendar includes celebrations from various religious and ethnic communities, making it a vibrant and colorful time for the country. One of the most important Malaysia public holidays is Hari Raya Puasa, which marks the end of Ramadan for Muslims. During this Malaysia public holiday, families gather, share meals, and exchange gifts. Another significant Malaysia public holiday is Hari Raya Haji, celebrating sacrifice and faith.

For the Chinese community, the Malaysia public holiday calendar features the Chinese New Year, celebrated with lion dances, feasts, and fireworks. The Dragon Boat Festival and Qing Ming Festival are also part of these Malaysia public holidays, characterized by traditional rituals and family outings.

Indians in Malaysia celebrate Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, which symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. This Malaysia public holiday is marked by colorful decorations, prayers, and festive feasts. In addition to religious celebrations, Malaysia’s public holiday calendar includes national holidays like Malaysia Day and the National Day, which foster patriotism and unity across the country.

Overall, the Malaysia public holiday calendar showcases the country’s diverse cultural and religious heritage. These holidays offer residents and visitors alike a chance to experience Malaysia’s traditions, participate in festivals, and better understand its pluralistic society. Whether it’s a religious celebration or a national event, each Malaysia public holiday reflects the vibrant spirit of the nation and its multitude of communities.