Homemade, unlicensed firearms illegal under Firearms Act 1960, says S’wak CP

KUCHING (Feb 12): The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Sarawak has warned that possession of any firearm, including homemade weapons and unlicensed ammunition, is an offence under the Firearms Act 1960.

Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah said all firearm ownership requires police approval and a valid licence, whether for personal use, hunting, self-defense, or property protection.

“Individuals must apply if they have a legitimate need to possess a firearm. We will assess the application, process it, and obtain the necessary approval.

“Only those with a valid licence are permitted to possess firearms,” he said after concluding Op Selamat 25 in conjunction with the 2026 Chinese New Year celebrations at Plaza Merdeka here.

Also present were Sarawak Road Transport Department (JPJ) Director Norizan Jili (left) and Deputy Director of the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Tiong Ling Hii.

Mohamad Zainal was responding to reporters’ questions regarding a recent case in Daro, where a man was charged in court for possessing a firearm and ammunition without permission.

He clarified that only firearms purchased from authorised suppliers and approved under established procedures are allowed.

“Homemade weapons are also not permitted and will not be approved.

“Possessing any form of weapon without a licence, even just ammunition, constitutes an offence,” he said.

On Feb 6, media reported that a man was charged under Section 8(a) of the Firearms Act 1960 at the Sarikei Court for possessing a firearm and ammunition without a valid permit.

No plea was recorded, and no bail was offered to the accused, with the case scheduled for further mention on Feb 12.

The man was previously arrested by officers from the Matu Daro District Police Headquarters for allegedly possessing two homemade break-action rifles, break-action rifle components, and six 12-bore bullets without a valid permit at Kampung Sedi, Maro.

The arrest was made by the Matu Daro Criminal Investigation Division, and the case is being investigated under Section 8(a) of the Firearms Act 1960.

Preliminary urine screening of the detainee also tested positive for amphetamine or methamphetamine.

For the record, possessing firearms and ammunition without a valid permit can result in imprisonment for up to seven years, a fine of up to RM10,000, or both.