KUALA LUMPUR: Shutting down licensed gaming outlets in Kedah will result in illegal gambling dens popping up in the northern state, says Datuk Seri M. Saravanan.

       "My personal view is that our friends will lose their jobs. Also, we have past experiences when samsu (toddy) shops were made illegal. The operators then went underground,” he said

       "Thus, the impact, if we ban licensed gaming outlets, will not only result in loss of jobs, but illegal gambling dens will start emerging," the Human Resources Minister added when wrapping up his ministerial replies on Budget 2022 in Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Nov 16).

       RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) wanted to know the ministry's view on the matter, as the move by the Kedah state government would result in loss of jobs.

       "Those who have lost their jobs will have to look for other jobs," he said.

       On Sunday (Nov 14), Kedah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor announced that the state's local councils will stop issuing business operating licences to gaming outlets, while those whose licences are valid can continue operating until their licences expire.

       Kedah's decision not to grant or renew the local business operating licences of gaming outlets has drawn flak from several quarters.

       The decision by the Kedah state government was said to go against the principles of multiculturalism and pluralism of Malaysia.