A national helpline, 1777, has been set up to provide support and guidance to individuals, are experiencing any problems related to gambling and their families.
The helpline was launched by the Responsible Gaming Foundation. It is also offering a chat facility through its website.
Callers may remain anonymous.
Economic Growth Parlimantary Secretary Jose Herrera underlined the significant bearing the gaming industry had on economic growth. He praised thethe Responsible Gaming Foundation for its involvement to promote responsible gaming.
He added that one had to cater also for individuals who were unable to perceive gambling as a recreational activity because of their loss of control. This was the main aim of the helping.
Dr Herrera noted that Malta Gaming Authority statistics showed that the rate of people who self-barred themselves rose to 1,043 persons last year compared to the 970 individuals in 2013.