Malaysian authorities have launched a nationwide crackdown on unlawful Bitcoin mining after miner-related nationwide energy losses exceeded roughly $1.1 billion between 2020 and August 2025, based on energy firm data and media studies.
The initiative targets roughly 13,800 to 14,000 websites suspected of stealing electrical energy with out paying for it. Actions embrace drone sweeps, meter checks and floor raids.
The duty drive begins floor sweeping with drones.
Based mostly on the report, a multi-agency process drive was established, together with state-owned energy firm Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), police and different regulators. Groups geared up with drones geared up with thermal cameras and particular meters have been used to identify indicators of warmth or irregular energy consumption in warehouses, shuttered shops and even residential areas.
Bitcoin mining {hardware} was seized in a number of operations, and no less than a number of arrests have been reported the place proof of meter tampering was discovered.
Unlawful Bitcoin Mining: Estimated Losses and Damages
The size is giant. The report revealed losses of about $1.1 billion (roughly 4.57 billion ringgit), and investigators stated practically 14,000 unlawful services had been found since 2020.
Authorities have warned that energy theft associated to mining has elevated sharply in recent times, with some sources pointing to a rise of round 300% since 2018. Many operators select low-cost hiding spots and proceed to maneuver to keep away from detection.
Authorized and coverage questions loom
Bitcoin mining itself just isn’t fully prohibited in Malaysia, however stealing electrical energy or bypassing meters is prohibited beneath the Electrical energy Provide Act 1990. Authorities are contemplating stricter measures. Some lawmakers and power officers have raised the choice of stricter licensing, smarter meters and even short-term bans on sure operations if thefts proceed.
The trouble is geared toward defending the steadiness of the facility grid and stopping long-term losses that may harm utility corporations’ income, based on the report.
Security dangers and pressure on the facility grid
Past funding, officers say there are security considerations. Tampering with connections or overloading strains can improve the chance of brief circuits and fires, and may injury transformers and different costly tools.
In some areas, locals have reported flickering lights and unreliable provides, which investigators have linked to irregular mining present in close by unlawful mines. These technical burdens improve the urgency of enforcement.
what occurs subsequent
The report says enforcement will depend on a mix of know-how akin to drones, thermal scanning and good meters, in addition to conventional police forces. The fast aim is to close down the rigs, seize the tools and take authorized motion towards the operators who took energy with out paying. Longer-term efforts are more likely to embrace clearer guidelines for authorized miners and elevated monitoring throughout the grid.
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