, Malaysia
147 view s
Photo by CK Yeo via Unsplash.

Malaysia launches amended Money Services Business Act

It clarifies offenses and the punishment for illegal operators.

Malaysia's Money Services Business (Amendment) Act 2024 is now in force effective 1 August, its central bank announced.

Amongst amendments include a mandatory imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years and a minimum fine of MYR 50,000 (approximately $11,035) for illegal operators of money services businesses (MSB) in Malaysia.

It also clarifies the offence of abetting illegal operators; and provides a clearer definition of remittance business and the scope of evidence that can be used to charge an illegal operator.

Authorities are empowered to forfeit the property of an illegal operator upon prosecution to deter repeat offenders.

It also outlines administrative instead of criminal actions to be taken by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) against operational breaches by MSB licensees. These administrative actions are in line with more proportionate enforcement actions appropriate to the severity of the offence, the financial regulator said.

Follow the link for more news on

Join Asian Banking & Finance community
Since you're here...

...there are many ways you can work with us to advertise your company and connect to your customers. Our team can help you dight and create an advertising campaign, in print and digital, on this website and in print magazine.

We can also organize a real life or digital event for you and find thought leader speakers as well as industry leaders, who could be your potential partners, to join the event. We also run some awards programmes which give you an opportunity to be recognized for your achievements during the year and you can join this as a participant or a sponsor.

Let us help you drive your business forward with a good partnership!