KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 — Putrajaya will close loopholes in the Sports Development Act to curb rigging and corruption, said Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, amid growing concern over criminal elements infiltrating the multi-billion ringgit e-sports industry.
Yeoh told Parliament during Question Time that her ministry plans to introduce major amendments to the Act to strengthen safeguards for internet-based sports, with the Bill targeted for tabling next year.
E-sports have surged in popularity among younger generations, with the global industry projected to be worth US$12.1 billion (RM50.4 million) by 2030.
“KBS plans to review enforcement (provisions) in the Sports Development Act and we are conducting roundtables with stakeholders about amending the Act so it becomes more effective by empowering the Sports Commission,” Yeoh said.
“So we aim the amendment bill to be tabled by next year,” she added.
While the extent of corruption in sports gaming remains unclear, allegations of match-fixing in high-stakes tournaments have surfaced over the years, prompting investigations in several countries.
Authorities have said the vast sums involved in both legal and illegal betting, combined with limited regulation and oversight, create strong incentives for corruption.
Yeoh added that her ministry is working closely with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to examine graft risks across all sports, including online competitions.
