Amend law to allow heavier penalties for scammers, govt urged

 Bersatu's R Sri Sanjeevan says the Penal Code lacks specific and comprehensive definitions for scams and digital fraud.

A record of RM2.77 billion was lost to online scams last year, a sharp increase from the losses of RM1.57 billion reported in 2024.

PETALING JAYA:

 A Bersatu leader has called on the government to amend the Penal Code to allow heavier penalties for scammers, to serve as a greater deterrent against the crime.

Acting Bersatu associate wing chief R Sri Sanjeevan said Section 420 of the Penal Code, which deals with cheating, is often used to prosecute scammers but lacks specific and comprehensive definitions for scams and digital fraud.

The section currently provides for one to 10 years in prison, caning and a fine, upon conviction.

“The existing provision is too general and its penalties are too light, considering that scams involve elaborate plans to defraud victims, as well as the exploitation of technology and complex international networks.

“The government needs to immediately amend Section 420 to include a clear definition of scams and digital fraud, heavier penalties, and greater investigative powers, including the freezing of assets.

“Every day we delay in taking sterner action reflects another day of Malaysians falling prey to scam syndicates, losing their life’s savings, future, and trust in institutional systems,” he said in a statement.

Home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail previously said online scammers caused victims RM5.62 billion in financial losses from 2023 to 2025.

A record of RM2.77 billion was lost to online scams last year, a sharp increase from the losses of RM1.57 billion reported in 2024 and RM1.28 billion in 2023.

Bukit Aman said online crime involving non-existent investment schemes was the largest contributor to financial losses last year, amounting to RM1.5 billion. - FMT