THE Kedah government must hold further stakeholder engagements before it implements the ban on 4D lottery outlets in the state, said Mohamed Azmin Ali.

The international trade and industry minister said the matter must be further discussed as it involves the rights of others.

“It is the decision of the state government, but I am of the view that we need to preserve the harmony in our multiracial society, including in Kedah.

“I want to see more discussions with all stakeholders on this decision. We must show mutual respect… in our multiracial society,” he told reporters after meeting with a surau committee in Malacca tonight.

However, he did not specify on the focus of the discussions.

Azmin is the first federal minister to give his view on the 4D lottery outlet ban since it was announced yesterday.

Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor courted controversy after announcing that the state will not renew 4D lottery outlet business licences, which are issued by local authorities.

He said the decision will take effect from next year, adding that the move will help tackle the ills resulting from gambling.

He said those in Kedah who want to purchase 4D tickets can head to Penang.

DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng has asked Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, as well as MCA, MIC and Gabungan Parti Sarawak ministers to explain whether the banning of 4D outlets and alcohol sales to non-Muslims is a new policy under Keluarga Malaysia – a concept adopted by the federal government.

Lim said the decision might have been made to help PAS candidates contesting in the Malacca polls.

PAS should have consulted MCA, MIC and the Chinese community considering the financial losses that may result from the sudden decision, he added. – November 15, 2021.