'Harsh, but true': Kedah MB stands by gambling remarks, denies targeting Anwar
Kedah MB Sanusi insists his gambling remarks targeted gambling tycoons, not PM Anwar, reaffirming his stance despite criticism.Summary
Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has stood by his controversial remarks on gambling, insisting that his harsh words were aimed at gambling tycoons and not at Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Speaking at the Generasi Pewaris Sejahtera Negeri Kedah 2026 convention in Alor Setar, Sanusi urged the public to refer to the original source of his comments rather than relying on others' interpretations. He emphasized that he would use his authority as menteri besar to speak out and take action where he had the power to do so.
Sanusi has faced criticism over earlier remarks that some interpreted as wishing ill on Anwar in connection with the gambling issue. He has denied this interpretation, maintaining that his comments were aimed at those who had sponsored legal action seeking to overturn the Kedah government's ban on lottery operations in the state.
The dispute dates back to November 2021, when Sanusi announced that the Kedah government would stop issuing and renewing premises licences for lottery and number-betting outlets. Physical lottery outlets have consequently been unable to operate in the state since 2023 despite holding federal licences. Lottery operators challenged the policy in court, and the High Court ruled in 2024 that the state government's decision was unlawful and unconstitutional. That decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal in December 2025. On August 12, the Federal Court rejected Kedah's application for leave to appeal, effectively ending the state government's legal bid to defend the ban.
(Source：Malay Mail)