In a decisive move to curb the growing prevalence of gambling, the government has introduced a bill to make both gambling and operating gambling establishments criminal offences.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced the development on Wednesdayin a social media post, confirming that the proposed amendment to the Penal Code has been formally submitted to Parliament.
The bill comes amid concerns over the rapid spread of online gambling in the Maldives, with many locals reportedly engaging in such activities through mobile and web-based applications.
The Bank of Maldives (BML) has also raised alarms, stating that its accounts have been used for gambling transactions via digital wallets. In response, the bank has begun blocking access to such platforms. The proposed legislation aligns with Islamic principles, under which gambling is strictly prohibited.
Parliament has already concluded its sessions for the year and is currently in recess, meaning the bill will be taken up when the next legislative session begins in February.