The grim statistic comes from the government survey, and it points to a trend that the Ain Society, a voluntary organisation for disadvantaged youth and families, has also noticed.
Ain Society's chief executive, Mr Md Yusof Ismail, said that from his conversations with those he counsels, a contributing factor is the rising cost of living.
He explained that when he asks those being counselled why they play 4-D, or those in coffee shops why they have taken to betting on horse races, they tell him they are 'buying hope', and that 'if I strike, I can support my family for one to two months'.
Islam forbids gambling, but, as Mr Yusof said, 'some Malays feel that as long as the Government does not see it as illegal, it is considered OK'.
Anyone who needs help may call the problem-gambling hotline on 1800-6668-668.
APRIL CHONG