《Singapore Daily News Sep 21》 Thailand’s controversial casino legalization plan faces a critical turning point. Senate President Mongkol has scheduled a pivotal session on September 23 to review a comprehensive study submitted by a special committee led by Senator Veeraphan.
The report delivers a strong rejection of the previous government’s draft Integrated Entertainment Complex Bill, warning that it lacks empirical foundation, violates Thailand’s core legal and moral values, and poses serious national risks.
The Committee Identifies 5 Major Risks:
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Economic Pitfalls:
Casino operations generate no real goods or services, merely shifting money among gamblers. Combined with infrastructure costs, the return on investment is uncertain and potentially negative. -
Social & Health Dangers:
Gambling addiction may lead to broken families, increased crime, and long-term public health burdens. -
Legal & Security Threats:
Casinos are often tied to money laundering, organized crime, and illicit activities—clashing with constitutional Articles 3 and 26 emphasizing rule of law and public welfare. -
Moral & Cultural Conflict:
Legalizing casinos contradicts Thai social values and constitutional morality. -
Damage to International Reputation:
Relying on high-risk tourism (like gambling) may invite global criticism and hinder Thailand’s long-term human resource development.
“Entertainment Complex” in Name Only
While the bill avoids the word “casino” in its title, it mandates that all proposed entertainment centers include casino operations—raising concerns about disguised gambling initiatives contrary to public ethics.
Excessive Power, No Checks
The proposed “Entertainment Policy Committee”—led by the Prime Minister and eight other ministers—would wield sweeping authority to alter laws favoring the casino industry, yet lacks oversight.
Critics argue this centralization violates constitutional checks and balances, and allows casino expansion without clear political accountability.
Three Future Scenarios Suggested:
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Ideal: Reject the bill entirely; promote ethical alternatives like wellness complexes.
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Alternative: If pursued, require full impact assessments and a national referendum.
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Risk Mitigation: If implemented and fails, the government must accept liability and provide redress.
Final Recommendation to the Senate:
The committee advises the government to reassess the bill’s constitutionality and realign the authority of the policy committee. If ignored, the Senate should firmly oppose the bill to protect Thailand’s legal, social, and national interests.