Thailand’s Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong is seeking the backing of business leaders to help move forward the country’s plans for a multi-faceted entertainment complex.
He insists it is not just a casino but a comprehensive development aimed at boosting tourism and attracting international investments.
Speaking at the “ASEAN Economic Outlook 2025” event in honor of the 37th anniversary of Krungthep Turakij newspaper, Sorawong, who also serves as secretary general of the Pheu Thai Party, emphasized that this initiative could play a major role in elevating Thailand’s economic standing. With a vision of Thailand re-emerging as “the fifth tiger of Asia,” Sorawong sees the entertainment complex as a key driver of this transformation.
He made a point to dispel the notion that the complex would focus solely on gambling, saying, “To think of this project as just a casino is missing the bigger picture.” Instead, the complex is envisioned as a sprawling hub featuring amusement parks, restaurants, bars, game centers, and department stores—all aimed at diversifying the nation’s tourism appeal.
Sorawong acknowledged that political discussions around the project have been fraught with opposition, and called on the private sector to step in, voicing support where political discourse has faltered. “I ask the business community to speak up. Their involvement is crucial to bringing this vision to life,” he urged.
The project has already undergone public hearings led by the Fiscal Policy Office, with the next steps involving a formal proposal to the Cabinet for review. Sorawong sees this as a turning point for Thailand’s tourism industry, suggesting the entertainment complex could become the kind of landmark destination the country currently lacks.
He also hinted at broader plans to bolster Thailand’s global profile, noting that 2025 will be a “grand year” for tourism and sports, as the nation gears up to host high-profile events like the 33rd Southeast Asian Games and the Thailand Grand Prix in Buriram.
While the minister is optimistic about the project’s potential, he reiterated that success will require strong backing from Thailand’s private sector, saying, “These developments will not materialize without the business community’s full support.”
With its ambitious plans, Thailand is looking to reposition itself among Asia’s economic powerhouses, hoping to recapture the energy that once earned it a place alongside the “Four Asian Tigers” of Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Taiwan.
