KEDAH’S gaming outlet operators have been told to look for suitable business alternatives for a continued income after the state government decided it will no longer renew gaming outlet licences.

Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said the operators should be creative in exploring other opportunities that will help them generate income and not just rely on gaming activities.

“Many Covid-19-affected companies have ventured into new businesses – a furniture shop turned into an eatery, a barbershop turned into a beauty salon… there are many things that they can do,” he told a press conference after a state assembly session at Wisma Darul Aman in Alor Star today.

During the debate session, Derga assemblyman Tan Kok Yew urged the state government to rescind its decision as it may result in a reduction of funds for the education, sports and welfare sectors in the state.

He said the move will also cause gaming outlet operators to incur costs and lead to unemployment.

However, Sanusi said the hardship faced by gaming outlet operators and workers due to the decision will be less than the damage due to gambling.

He also thanked the opposition assemblymen who supported the decision at the sitting today.

“The assembly went smoothly; there was calmness from both sides in supporting the motion. I believe politics like this is beneficial to the public.”

The media had yesterday reported Sanusi as saying that the Kedah government has decided to not approve gambling licence applications to ensure the state is free of gambling activities in future. – Bernama, November 15, 2021.