THE move by the Kedah state government to ban 4D gaming outlets in the state is bigotry against the non-Muslims, said Penang deputy chief minister Prof P. Ramasamy.
He also said that the state government or its local councils have no right to deny non-Muslims their right to frequent 4D gaming outlets.
“If this decision is not Islamisation against the rights of non-Muslims, then what it is? Gaming outlets are not just frequented by non-Muslims but also Muslims who want to try their luck in earning quick money.
“If the state wants to ban Muslims from frequenting the gaming centres, I have nothing to say about that,” he said.
Earlier today, Kedah menteri besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor announced he will no longer renew licences of all gaming shops in the state.
Calling it a move “to tackle social ills resulting from gambling”, Sanusi also said that would introduce curbs on the sale of alcohol in rural parts of Kedah “where the demand for such drinks is low”.
“Those who want to buy (4-D lottery numbers) can go to Penang,” he was reported saying.
Sanusi can’t stand Penang’s success
With that said, Ramasamy shot back at Sanusi for attempting to undermine Penang, saying the latter could help himself but to criticise the state often.
“Is he saying Penang is low on morals? Besides, what Kedah needs to ban is its indiscriminate logging, especially in the water catchment areas,” he stated.
Ramasamy also reminded Sanusi that a large number of Kedahans work in Penang as they found it easier to gain employment there.
“Rather than appreciating Penang for providing employment opportunities for Kedahans, Sanusi is passing moral judgment on its neighbour,” the Penang DAP deputy chairperson remarked. – Nov 14, 2021.