Public urged not to borrow from illegal money lenders

suppadmin | June 6, 2026

Kota Sentosa Assemblyman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin accompanied a husband and wife from his constituency to meet Kuching District Police Chief, Alexson Naga Chabu, regarding a series of threats and acts of arson allegedly committed by illegal moneylenders against the family.

The couple has lodged five (5) police reports concerning the matter, which allegedly arose from a loan of RM7,000 taken by their son from illegal moneylenders. According to the family, the illegal moneylenders are now demanding approximately RM30,000 as settlement and have resorted to intimidation, threatening messages, and acts of arson targeting the family home and vehicle.

Yap expressed grave concern over the situation and described it as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that often arise from dealing with illegal moneylenders.

“This case serves as a serious warning to the public. What may begin as a seemingly small loan can quickly spiral into a nightmare for the borrower and, more tragically, for innocent family members. Illegal moneylenders often use fear, threats, harassment, and violence to extort money far beyond the original loan amount,” said Yap.

He revealed that the couple’s son has since left the family home and is currently in hiding, leaving his parents to face the consequences of the actions taken by the illegal moneylenders.

“No parent should have to live in fear in their own home because of the actions of criminal syndicates. The alleged threats and acts of arson directed at the family are unacceptable and cannot be tolerated in a law-abiding society,” he stressed.

Yap has requested the Kuching District Police to thoroughly investigate the matter and take swift action to identify, track down, and apprehend those responsible.

“The alleged threats, intimidation, criminal damage, and acts of arson are serious offences under the Penal Code. Those responsible must be brought to justice to ensure the safety of the victims and to send a clear message that such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated,” he said.

Yap also urged members of the public facing similar situations not to suffer in silence but to immediately lodge police reports and seek assistance from the authorities, elected representatives, or relevant support agencies.

He further advised those experiencing financial difficulties to seek help through legitimate financial institutions, government assistance programmes, licensed moneylenders, or debt counselling services rather than resorting to illegal moneylenders.

“Borrowing from illegal moneylenders is never the solution. The consequences can be devastating, not only financially but also emotionally and physically. The public must remain vigilant and avoid falling into the trap of illegal lending syndicates,” he added.