30-3-2024 (BANGKOK) Calls for the establishment of the first-ever entertainment-casino complex on Thai soil in Hat Yai have been amplified, with advocates suggesting that its inauguration could significantly bolster tourism in the region. The proposal, initially restricting access to foreigners, comes amidst assertions that such an initiative would invigorate the local economy.
Sitthipong Sitthiphataraprabha, President of the Hat Yai-Songkhla Hotels Association, spearheaded the endorsement for the complex’s establishment, highlighting its potential economic dividends. “The advantage of Songkhla’s Hat Yai district is that it is located near a neighbouring country, Malaysia. If a legal casino is to be opened, illegal online gambling should not be allowed to exist so taxes can be properly collected from legal casinos,” Mr. Sitthipong remarked.
However, Mr. Sitthipong emphasised the necessity of regulatory frameworks to mitigate any adverse societal repercussions. “Measures should be devised to regulate the complex to prevent any negative social impacts,” he insisted.
Acknowledging prevailing resistance to the legalization of casinos, proponents suggest positioning the complex primarily as a tourist attraction. Initial plans entail exclusively permitting entry to foreigners to evaluate impacts and revenue streams, Mr. Sitthipong proposed.
The subsequent phase entails comprehensive data gathering on the gambling habits of Thai nationals abroad and their expenditure patterns before contemplating domestic access to casinos, he added.
Moreover, Mr. Sitthipong envisaged the complex as a multifaceted tourist destination, encompassing amusement parks, hotels, and restaurants. “Those who do not want to enter the casino can visit other attractions in and around the complex,” he elucidated.
“It is time for Thailand to legalise casinos. Neighbouring countries already have casinos, and many of their patrons are Thais,” Mr. Sitthipong asserted.
However, the Move Forward Party (MFP) expressed reservations concerning a report compiled by a special House committee evaluating the feasibility of entertainment-casino complexes. The report, endorsed by the House of Representatives, drew criticism for its perceived inadequacies in addressing issues such as online gambling and illicit financial activities.
Rangsiman Rome, an MFP list MP and committee member, underscored persistent gambling-related challenges and the report’s failure to furnish viable solutions. “No measures have been conceived to prevent these problems. The report has failed to address the problems, but the House of Representatives approved it,” Mr. Rome lamented.
While the MFP does not oppose the concept of legalised casinos, Mr. Rome stressed the need for a more comprehensive report.
In response, Kosol Pattama, a Pheu Thai MP for Nakhon Ratchasima, announced plans to introduce a bill on the project during the forthcoming parliamentary session from July 3 to October 30. MPs from various factions are also anticipated to propose analogous bills.
Echoing support for the initiative, Pol Gen Watcharapol Prasarnrajkit, chairman of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, underscored the imperative of adherence to legal protocols.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, who heads the House committee overseeing the matter, cited findings suggesting economic windfalls from such entertainment complexes. He cited international models in Singapore and the US, where similar ventures have reportedly operated without significant issues.
