Lottery in Malaysia & Singapore
The history of lotteries in Malaysia can be traced back to the early 1960s.
The introduction of lotteries in the country was largely driven by the government's interest in generating revenue for various public projects and initiatives.
Lotteries have a charitable focus, with proceeds going to specific causes. These lotteries are often seen as a way to contribute to social welfare.
The Ideology of Lottery
The first recorded lotteries to offer tickets for sale with prizes in the form of money were held in the Low Countries in the 15th century. Various towns held public lotteries to raise money for town fortifications, and to help the poor. [wikipedia]
The money generated from special draws is claimed to be used for community-friendly programs, including sports, health, culture, and other societal benefits.
Origin of Special Draws
Special draws are dates back to the late 1990s and the Nipah virus incident.
The Nipah virus led to significant economic challenges for pig farmers, and the government established funds, including the JE Humanitarian Fund, to assist those affected.
More articles
1) Malaysia's govt increases special lottery draws during Covid, 2021
2) Government to lose more from cut in special draws
3) Special lottery’s beginning had something to do with a locally discovered virus
Criticism and Concerns
Some individuals and politicians, including those from the Democratic Action Party (DAP) & PAS, have expressed concerns about the social implications of gambling.
Those concerns include potential increases in gambling addiction and negative social costs. The impact of lotteries on communities can vary. While lottery revenue may contribute to public goods, critics argue that the economic burden falls disproportionately on certain demographics. The funds may also be insufficient to address broader social issues adequately.
In Islam, gambling is generally considered haram (forbidden) that prohibits games of chance and emphasizes the importance of avoiding activities that rely on luck or chance.
The "Black Market"
The impact of illegal or black market lotteries can have several negative consequences on individuals, communities, and society as a whole including:
* Lack of Regulation and Consumer Protections
* Organized Crime Involvement
* Social Harm and Addiction
* Loss of Revenue for the Government
After CNY gg BFF! DO NOT BUY FROM BLACK MARKET!!!
Summary
Whether lotteries are viewed as good or bad depends on the specific context, the regulatory framework in place, and individual perspectives on the ethical and social implications of gambling. Governments and societies often grapple with finding a balance between generating revenue for public services and mitigating potential negative consequences associated with lotteries.
* picture for illustration purposes only