KUALA LUMPUR, October 13 — The Malaysian government is set to increase the allocation for the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) to RM20 million, doubling its current budget of RM10 million, in a bid to strengthen its role in combating scam-related crimes. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also serves as the finance minister, stated that the increased allocation would take effect in the upcoming year. This decision comes in response to the NSRC’s commendable performance, having managed over 49,000 calls and successfully freezing transactions worth up to RM60 million.
Anwar explained that Bank Negara Malaysia, in collaboration with the financial sector, is currently developing a National Fraud Portal (NFP), expected to be operational by mid-2024. This portal will possess automated tracking capabilities, which should expedite the process of tracking, freezing, and recovering funds. Furthermore, government agencies are evaluating the need for legal amendments, including potential changes to the Criminal Procedure Code.
These changes would enhance the authorities’ ability to take effective action against criminal syndicates and the holders of mule accounts, thereby streamlining the process of returning funds to scam victims. This concerted effort is part of the ongoing campaign to combat scams and provide swift restitution to those affected.
