TNB Suffers Nearly RM30 Million Loss from Illegal Bitcoin Mining Activities in Melaka
MELAKA: Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) recorded losses of nearly RM30 million last year due to electricity theft linked to illegal bitcoin mining operations in Melaka.
Deputy Exco for Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Communication, Mohd Noor Helmy Abdul Halem, said the losses amounted to RM29.63 million, a sharp increase from RM10.46 million in 2024.
He said the RM19.17 million rise reflects the growing scale and intensity of illegal cryptocurrency mining activities in the state.
“A total of 85 cases were detected last year compared with only 30 cases in 2024, showing that the problem is becoming more serious,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after an operation to cut off electricity supply at an unoccupied house in Taman Tambak Paya Harmoni, believed to be used for illegal bitcoin mining.
Mohd Noor Helmy said preliminary investigations found that power cables had been concealed using curtains to avoid detection by authorities.
According to him, TNB estimated monthly losses of about RM8,000 from the premises, which also disrupted electricity supply to three neighbouring houses.
No arrests were made as the property was vacant during the raid, which was carried out in collaboration with the Suruhanjaya Tenaga.
“This is the second case recorded in Melaka this year, following a raid in January involving two shop units with estimated losses of RM1.6 million,” he said.
He stressed that the state government, together with TNB and the Energy Commission, will intensify enforcement operations to curb electricity theft, which not only causes financial losses but also poses serious safety risks.
Authorities have also urged property owners to be vigilant and avoid renting out their premises to individuals involved in illegal activities.
-wilayah.com.my
