Minister of Home Affairs Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman yesterday said the claw machine has been categorised as haram as it has gambling elements in response to the status of the machine raised by Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin.
The minister said the machine is prohibited under Chapter 181 of the Public Entertainment Act, companies manning it will be instructed to discontinue or cease operation.
According to the Fatwa series issued by the State Mufti’s Office on December 18, 2023, the claw machine was categorised as haram as it is considered as gambling, the minister added.
The ministry, through district offices and the municipal board, have identified companies given approval to run the machine prior to the issuance of the Fatwa, adding that notices will be issued to discontinue the licence. The minister also said the ministry will continue to collaborate with the State Mufti’s Office in taking action on games that has gambling elements. – Rokiah Mahmud
