Sportsbook Betting: History, Types, and Top Providers in Malaysia
Discover the rich history of sportsbook betting, explore popular betting types, and learn about trusted providers like SBOBET, BTI Sports, Saba Sports, and CMD368.

The History of Sportsbook Betting
Sportsbook betting has roots tracing back centuries, starting with wagers on horse racing and gladiatorial contests in ancient Rome. Over time, the practice evolved to include modern sports like football, basketball, and tennis. Today, sportsbook betting is a global phenomenon, fueled by advancements in technology and the growing accessibility of online platforms.
In Malaysia, sportsbook betting gained traction as international betting sites became popular. With the rise of trusted online casino platforms, Malaysians can now participate in legal and secure betting experiences through global bookmakers and dedicated providers.
Why Do People Love Sports Betting?
Sports betting thrives because it offers excitement and a deeper connection to the games. Fans can showcase their knowledge, root for their favorite teams, and enjoy the camaraderie of shared wagers. It also makes otherwise predictable games more engaging through odds and point spreads.
Types of Sportsbook Betting
1. Moneyline Bets
Moneyline bets involve wagering on which team or player will win outright, offering simplicity and clarity.
2. Odds Betting
Odds betting adjusts payouts based on the likelihood of an event. Higher odds mean higher potential winnings.
3. Point Spread
This system levels the playing field by assigning point handicaps. Bettors can wager on the favorite or underdog with adjusted scores.
4. Over/Under Bets
Also called totals betting, this involves predicting whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a set number.
5. Parlay Bets
Parlay bets combine multiple bets into one wager. All selections must win for a payout, but the rewards are higher.
6. Prop Bets
Proposition bets focus on specific events within a game, such as individual player performances or match statistics.
7. Fantasy Leagues
Participants draft real players for their fantasy teams, earning points based on actual performances.
Understanding Odds in Sports Betting
Odds play a crucial role in sportsbook betting, as they determine potential payouts and reflect the likelihood of an event. Here are the common types of odds used in Malaysia:
1. Decimal Odds
Popular in Europe, decimal odds show the total payout for every unit wagered. For example:
- If the odds are 2.50, a $10 bet would return $25 ($15 profit plus the $10 stake).
- Decimal odds are easy to understand and are often used on international betting platforms.
2. Fractional Odds
Common in the UK, fractional odds represent the profit relative to the stake. For example:
- If the odds are 5/1, a $10 bet would yield $50 in profit plus the $10 stake, for a total return of $60.
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This format is popular among traditional bookmakers and experienced bettors.
3. Malay Odds
Malay odds are commonly used in Malaysia and can be positive or negative:
- Positive Malay Odds: Represent the profit on a $1 bet. For example, odds of 0.50 mean a $1 bet returns $0.50 profit plus the stake.
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Negative Malay Odds: Indicate the amount you need to bet to win $1. For instance, odds of -0.50 mean you need to bet $0.50 to win $1.
Popular Sports for Betting

1. Football
Football remains the most popular sport for betting worldwide, including Malaysia. Events like the FIFA World Cup and Premier League draw significant wagers.
2. Basketball
The NBA and international tournaments offer exciting opportunities for betting on fast-paced games.
3. Horse Racing
One of the oldest forms of sportsbook betting, horse racing features diverse wagering options like trifectas and exactas.
4. Tennis
Tennis tournaments such as Wimbledon and the US Open attract bettors with options to wager on sets, games, and match winners.
5. eSports
Games like Dota 2 and League of Legends have made eSports a growing segment in sportsbook betting, especially among younger bettors.
Top Sportsbook Providers in Malaysia

CMD368
CMD368 is an international bookmaker offering live betting on a variety of sports and events. Fully licensed, CMD368 is known for its secure environment, competitive odds, and extensive sports coverage, including football and other popular games.
SBOBET
Established in 2004, SBOBET is a leading sportsbook betting provider serving Asia, Europe, and Canada. With support for multiple languages and currencies, SBOBET offers a user-friendly experience across devices. Bettors can enjoy markets for football, basketball, tennis, MMA, and more.
BTI Sports
BTI Sports has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality sportsbook betting platforms. With coverage of football, basketball, horseracing, and esports, BTI caters to both Asian and European markets. Their commitment to accessibility ensures users can bet from any device.
Saba Sports
Saba Sports is a trusted provider in Asia, known for offering the widest range of sporting events and comprehensive betting options. Their competitive odds and multilingual support make them a favorite among Malaysian bettors.
Tips for Successful Sports Betting
- Do Your Research: Study team performance, player stats, and recent form before placing bets.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget and stick to it to avoid excessive losses.
- Focus on Specific Sports: Specializing in one or two sports can improve your betting accuracy.
- Understand the Odds: Familiarize yourself with decimal, fractional, and Malay odds to make informed decisions.
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Explore Live Betting: Streaming games and live betting options can provide real-time opportunities to capitalize on shifting dynamics.
Conclusion
Sportsbook betting in Malaysia continues to grow, offering thrilling opportunities for sports enthusiasts and gamblers alike. With providers like CMD368, SBOBET, BTI Sports, and Saba Sports, bettors have access to trusted platforms with extensive options. Remember to bet responsibly and enjoy the exciting world of online sports betting.