A 75-YEAR-OLD man has been detained by Johor Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) officers for purchasing a lottery ticket, marking the end of what he admitted to be four decades of habitual gambling.
The elderly man, who lives alone in a village house and survives on RM600 in monthly government aid, was apprehended on Wednesday afternoon while attempting to place an RM8 bet at a local gambling outlet.
"He admitted he has been gambling for over 40 years and continues to try his luck despite facing serious financial limitations," said a JAINJ spokesperson.
Initial investigations revealed that the man bases his lottery purchases on dreams and perceived omens, including road accidents.
“He explained that if he witnesses an overturned vehicle, it’s a sign that he should ‘reverse’ the number he intends to buy. He now only gambles with small amounts, depending on whatever leftover money he has after covering basic needs,” the spokesperson added.
The man also acknowledged that gambling is prohibited in Islam but confessed it was difficult to stop, fearing that the number he frequently plays might win if he were to quit.
Officers later visited his home to verify the status of a potential guarantor, as he has no close family members to act on his behalf.
The case is being investigated under Section 18 of the Johor Syariah Criminal Offences Enactment. If convicted, he may face a fine of up to RM3,000, a jail sentence of up to two years, or both.
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