Called a ‘gambling boss’, Anwar fires back: I cut special lottery draws from 22 to eight
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reduced special lottery draws from 22 to eight per year, defending himself against being called a gambling boss.Summary
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim defended himself against being called a “gambling boss” (tauke judi) after his government reduced the number of special lottery draws from 22 to eight per year. The reduction, announced at the launch of Skim Usahawan Bangkit Permatang Pauh in Penanti, reverses a policy under previous administrations (2020‑2022) that had increased draws from eight to 22. Anwar’s remarks came in response to criticism from Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, who warned that Kedahans would “curse” the prime minister if gambling resumed in the state after the Federal Court dismissed Kedah’s attempt to end licensed gambling. Anwar challenged his critics, asking why they attacked him when he had taken steps to curb gaming.
(Source：Malay Mail)