Responsible Gambling
Gambling should never put your money, health or relationships at risk. Here is how to keep control, recognise warning signs and get support.
The basics
- Gambling involves financial risk. Casino games are designed so that, over time, the operator keeps a share of all money staked.
- It is not income. Gambling should never be treated as a way to earn money or to solve financial problems.
- Only where legal, only adults. Take part only where it is legal for you and if you meet the legal age requirement. In Malaysia, licensed gaming venues require players to be at least 21, and gambling is prohibited for Muslims.
- Set limits before you start. Decisions made mid-session are rarely the best ones.
Practical ways to stay in control
- Set a money limit. Decide an amount you can afford to lose completely, and stop when it is gone. Never chase losses.
- Set a time limit. Use a phone timer or screen-time setting. Fast games make time pass quickly.
- Use account tools. Deposit limits, reality checks, time-outs and self-exclusion exist for a reason. Use them early.
- Keep gambling separate. Don't gamble when stressed, low, after drinking, or with money meant for bills or family.
- Block access if you need a break. Free tools such as BetBlocker can block gambling sites on your devices.
Warning signs
Ask yourself honestly whether any of these apply:
- Spending more money or time than you planned, more often than not
- Trying to win back losses by gambling more
- Borrowing money, using credit or selling things to gamble
- Hiding gambling from family or friends
- Feeling anxious, irritable or low when not gambling
- Gambling affecting your work, studies or relationships
If any of these sound familiar, it is worth talking to someone. You don't have to wait until things are serious.
Where to get support in Malaysia
| Service | What it offers | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Befrienders Kuala Lumpur | Confidential emotional support for anyone in distress | befrienders.org.my · 03-7627 2929 |
| Talian Kasih (Kementerian Pembangunan Wanita, Keluarga dan Masyarakat) | Government helpline for people and families in crisis | Call 15999 |
| Gambling Therapy | Free online support and forums for people affected by gambling, in several languages | gamblingtherapy.org |
| BetBlocker | Free software to block access to gambling websites on your devices | betblocker.org |
| National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) | Report financial scams quickly so funds can be traced | Call 997 |
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
Sokongan dalam Bahasa Melayu
Jika perjudian menjejaskan kewangan, kesihatan atau hubungan anda, anda tidak keseorangan. Hubungi Talian Kasih di 15999 atau Befrienders Kuala Lumpur untuk sokongan sulit. Tetapkan had perbelanjaan dan masa, dan jangan sesekali meminjam wang untuk berjudi.
Protecting minors
Gambling content is for adults only. If children use your devices, use parental controls such as Google Family Link or Apple Screen Time, and don't leave gambling accounts logged in.
If you have lost money to a scam
Contact your bank immediately and call the National Scam Response Centre on 997. Quick reporting gives the best chance of funds being traced. Read more in our guide to casino payment safety.
For a practical guide to setting limits, see how to set gambling limits that work.