MIRI – Nine individuals have been fined by the Miri Magistrate’s Court after admitting to charges of illegal gambling involving terup leaves.
The group, which included both men and women, was sentenced on 12 June 2026 to pay RM1,500 each or face two weeks’ imprisonment if unable to settle the fine.
The charges were brought under Section 6(1)(c) of the Open Gambling House Act 1953, a provision that makes participation in such activities unlawful.
The case followed a police raid earlier this month, which uncovered gambling operations at a health and beauty care centre located in the Boulevard area of Miri.
Acting on information received, police officers carried out the raid on 2 June 2026. During the operation, gambling activities were detected in two separate rooms within the premises.
Officers seized several sets of terup leaves along with cash believed to have been used as betting stakes. The arrests highlight ongoing enforcement efforts against illegal gambling in Sarawak.
Authorities have consistently warned that gambling outside licensed venues is prohibited and subject to strict penalties. The Open Gambling House Act, which has been in force since 1953, continues to serve as the legal framework for tackling such offences.
Miri District Police Chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee bin Abdullah underscored the seriousness with which the police view gambling offences. He stated that enforcement operations will remain a priority to ensure that such activities are curtailed.
“The police view any form of illegal gambling activities seriously and will continue to carry out operations and enforcement continuously to combat such activities,” he said.
He further reminded the public that gambling is a punishable offence under Malaysian law and warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found participating.
The police chief also encouraged community members to report any suspicious activities, stressing that public cooperation is vital in maintaining peace and order.
Illegal gambling has long been a concern in Sarawak, with authorities frequently conducting raids to dismantle operations.
The use of terup leaves, a traditional card game material, has been linked to informal gambling practices across the region.
While often associated with social gatherings, its misuse in betting activities has drawn the attention of law enforcement.
The latest convictions serve as a reminder of the risks individuals face when engaging in unlawful gambling.
Police have reiterated that community vigilance and cooperation are essential in supporting enforcement efforts and ensuring that Sarawak remains safe and secure.
