The state of Kedah's decision on gaming shops runs counter to Malaysia's plurality

[ASEAN NOW Content Team]

 

According to MCA vice-president Datuk Tan Teik Cheng, Kedah's decision not to grant or renew local company operating licences for gaming establishments goes against Malaysia's multiculturalism and pluralism ideals.

"No one should push their own ideals and religious agenda on others," he added, adding that instead, people should appreciate and tolerate one another.

He claimed that, as a country with a wide population of races, religions, and cultures, the government has long respected the way of life and rights of all ethnic and religious groups.

 

"We do not encourage people to gamble, but neither the federal nor state governments should interfere with people's freedoms and fundamental rights.
Individual political parties' and officials' religious agendas cannot be forced on the general public "Tan remarked.

 

Kedah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor declared last week that the state's local councils will suspend awarding business operating licences to gambling establishments, but those with valid licences can continue to operate until their expiration dates.