Gambling, a practice long prohibited under Islamic law, is witnessing a quiet but alarming resurgence in the Maldives—despite the country's 100% Muslim population and its religious principles. Once confined to underground circles, gambling has now rapidly migrated to smartphones and homes through online platforms and mobile applications, raising serious concerns among religious leaders, policymakers, and civil society.
Recognising the growing threat to public morality and social stability, the government has introduced a landmark bill to amend the Penal Code, proposing to criminalise both gambling and the operation of gambling establishments.
The proposed amendments would insert three new clauses into Article 616, clearly defining gambling as the exchange of anything of value based on chance or outcome through electronic means, gambling devices, or organised schemes. Crucially, the amendment excludes legitimate sports and entertainment competitions that award prizes, as well as non-gambling arcade devices, ensuring that recreational activities are not unfairly targeted. A gambling device is now defined as any mechanical, electromechanical, or electronic machine designed to dispense money or valuables based on luck or skill, while gambling establishments—including online platforms—face equal legal scrutiny.
Under the new framework, both gambling and running a gambling operation would be classified as Class 4 offenses, punishable by a minimum of 1 year, 7 months, and 6 days in prison, with sentences extending up to four years.
Since last year, authorities have been blocking gambling websites, but the rapid proliferation of new apps and sites has outpaced enforcement. With this legislative push, the government aims to close legal loopholes and strengthen its ability to combat the digital spread of gambling.
The bill, currently awaiting parliamentary review, is expected to be taken up when the Parliament reconvenes next year. The amendments are not only a legal necessity but a moral imperative to protect Maldivian society from the social ills associated with gambling—bankruptcy, family breakdowns, violence, and spiritual neglect.