What role does Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim play in the gambling licence issue?

Question

Accepted Answer

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Holds Ultimate Authority on Kedah Gambling Licences

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, concurrently serving as the Finance Minister, possesses the final decision-making authority regarding the approval or prohibition of gambling operations in Kedah. This follows a Federal Court ruling that impacted the state's ability to enforce its ban on commercial gaming licences. The Kedah Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, has indicated that the responsibility for this decision now lies with the Prime Minister.
Decision-Making Power on Gambling Operations

Following the Federal Court's dismissal of the Kedah government's application for leave to appeal an appellate court decision, the power to permit or halt gambling activities in Kedah has shifted. Sanusi stated that the ultimate decision rests squarely with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also holds the finance portfolio. This places the onus on the Prime Minister to determine the future of gaming licences within the state.
Potential for Public Backlash

Sanusi has cautioned that any move to approve licences for gaming outlets in Kedah could trigger significant public opposition. He articulated that approving such licences would likely spark widespread public backlash, suggesting a strong sentiment against gambling operations among the populace. This warning highlights the sensitive nature of the issue within the state.
The Finance Minister's Court

The phrase "the ball is in the finance minister’s court" was used by Sanusi to describe the current situation regarding gambling licences in Kedah. This idiom signifies that the responsibility for the next step or a resolution now lies with the individual holding the finance portfolio, which is Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The matter is therefore awaiting his determination.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What role does Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim play in the gambling licence issue?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends