Academics in Thailand have recommended that the government conduct a referendum on the entertainment complex policy to mitigate its societal impact, according to a report from the local media outlet The Nation.
During a roundtable session hosted by Bangkok business experts, concerns were raised about corruption, monopolies, and money laundering risks linked to the policy.
Nonarit Bisonyabut, a senior researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), stressed the need for clear mechanisms to regulate business operators and protect society from potential harm. He suggested that the government gather public feedback and compile a report that addresses concerns about the policy’s implementation.
Nualnoi Treerat, director of Chulalongkorn University’s Centre for Gambling Studies, warned that Thailand has not adopted Singapore’s protective measures despite modeling the entertainment complex bill on its framework.
She pointed out that Singapore’s success stems from strict regulations, public awareness campaigns, and effective support for gambling addicts. In Singapore, comprehensive screening measures have resulted in 300,000 individuals being barred from casino services.
Treerat emphasized the importance of implementing similar safeguards in Thailand, including visitor restrictions and dedicated support for those affected by gambling.
Chittawan Chanakul, a lecturer at Thammasat University’s Faculty of Economics, argued that effective governance and low levels of corruption are crucial for a country seeking to establish an entertainment complex.
She highlighted Thailand’s fall to 107th place in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index as an indicator of weak law enforcement. Chanakul cited research showing that gambling industries can reduce economic growth by 1 percent while increasing crime rates. She urged policymakers to address these risks by introducing a minimum license fee of 5 billion baht and improving the proposed legislation.
Thanakorn Komkrit, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, criticized the bill for its lack of clear regulations on credit provision to gamblers, the absence of a regulatory body to manage societal impacts, and insufficient public participation. He called for stronger legal measures and updates to the 90-year-old Gambling Act.
He also urged steps to ensure the policy does not inadvertently create a zone that benefits special interest groups through regulatory loopholes.
Earlier this month, the Thai government confirmed that its Cabinet delayed the final deliberation of the controversial casino bill, emphasizing the need for a thorough review and public consultation.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured that all concerns would be addressed before any decision is made.
