by AFIQ HANIF / pic source: National Security Council
THE National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) has received 30,069 complaints as of April 2023 since its establishment.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said from the total, 11,858 were calls from scam victims, with a total reported loss of RM104.8 million.
“A total of 3,595 investigation papers were opened for fraud offences under Section 420 of the Penal Code, and an additional 33 investigation papers were initiated for money laundering offences, involving sanctions totalling RM34.8 million,” he said in response to a question by Bakri MP Tan Hong Pin in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He assured that all investigation papers opened by the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) are still under investigation, and none have been closed yet, adding that the government is actively studying the appropriate method of returning money to scam victims.
“The process of returning funds is crucial and requires careful consideration to ensure fairness and compliance with the law,” he said.
The PM also said that planning and evaluation are currently underway to strengthen the operations of the NSRC.
“The extension of the centre’s operational time is being considered, taking into account current trends in fraudulent activities, including the types and timing of scams.
“The government aims to enhance the effectiveness of the NSRC in responding swiftly to block financial transactions associated with scams,” he added.
Anwar also highlighted the importance of staffing and the permanent placement of officers at the NSRC.
“Efforts are being made to expand manpower resources by including officers not only from civil services such as PDRM and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission but also from financial institutions and the telecommunications industry.
“This collaborative approach aims to tap into a wide range of expertise and resources to combat scams effectively,” he said.
Anwar reminded that scam victims can still contact their respective bank’s hotline for assistance and to file complaints.