Since gambling was made legal in 1999, the government has received more than RM1 billion in profits from gaming companies running 4D special draws (nombor ekor).

NONE The amount is given back for the benefit of society in various ways, said Prime Minister and Finance Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

In a written reply to Liew Chin Tong (DAP-Bukit Bendera), Najib said the takings are channelled into sports, welfare, social, culture and health programmes.

The social sector received RM361 million, the sports sector RM320 million, welfare sector RM268 million and the health sector RM146.7 million.

Since last October, the government awarded all three 4D gaming companies - Berjaya Sports Toto, Magnum and Tanjong plc with 10 additional special draws a year.

Each draw typically adds about RM20 million to the total sales.

Several analysts criticised Najib's move, saying it left him vulnerable to attack from the opposition Islamic party which could accuse the government of being un-Islamic.

Funds for heritage sites

Bukit Bendera DAP parliamentarian Liew Chin Tong also asked why the government is channelling money through its investment arm Khazanah Nasional Berhad to maintain heritage sites in Penang.

In a written reply, Najib said the government allocated RM50 million under the 2009 Budget with RM30 million for Malacca and RM20 million for Penang.

However, Malacca's allocation was made through the Heritage Funds Group under the Information, Communication and Culture Ministry.

Liew said it did not make sense for the federal government to channel money to maintain heritage sites in Penang through the government body.

"Why not give it to the state government when the heritage site is in Penang?" he asked.

Liew also questioned the difference in amount given to the Pakatan Rakyat-led Penang and BN-administrated Malacca.

Last year, Penang's George Town and Malacca's old township were declared heritage sites under Unesco's World Heritage Sites, giving a boost to the tourism industry.