Crypto Mining Causes $1.1B Electricity Losses Across Malaysia’s TNB Network
Malaysia’s Ministry of Energy has raised alarms over a surge in electricity theft linked to unauthorized cryptocurrency mining operations. Utility provider Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) reported losses exceeding $1.1 billion between 2020 and August 2025 due to illegal power consumption. Over 13,800 premises were identified as part of widespread meter tampering and grid bypass schemes.
Authorities have intensified coordinated raids to dismantle these networks, which often operate covertly in residential and commercial areas. The illicit setups draw heavy power loads while evading detection, straining Malaysia’s electrical infrastructure. Meter manipulation remains a criminal offense under national electricity laws, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.
