A recent survey reveals that most Thai citizens are concerned about the government’s proposed entertainment complex policy, which includes plans to legalize casinos as part of multi-purpose business hubs.
The entertainment complex bill aims to stimulate economic growth, boost tourism, and attract foreign investment by allowing entrepreneurs to establish integrated complexes that combine casinos with at least four other businesses. While the policy is expected to generate economic benefits, concerns remain over its potential social and security impacts.
According to The Nation, the poll was conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll) and involved 1,310 respondents aged 18 and above from across the country. Among the participants, 32.6 percent expressed concern that the policy could increase vice and undermine national security.
Other major concerns highlighted in the survey include doubts about the policy’s economic effectiveness (30.2 percent), fears of increased gambling addiction (28.1 percent), and worries over potential money laundering activities (24.9 percent). Additionally, 24.7 percent of respondents questioned how the government plans to prevent criminal activities linked to the complexes.
Social concerns were also prominent, with 20.2 percent of respondents questioning whether the government had sufficient measures in place to mitigate social impacts. Meanwhile, 18.6 percent were skeptical about the policy’s ability to curb illegal gambling, while 18.5 percent questioned whether the policy would genuinely attract tourists.
Concerns about political influence and corruption were also raised. Over 16 percent of respondents questioned whether the entertainment complexes would become a source of political funding, while 12.1 percent questioned the transparency of the licensing process. Some 11.9 percent expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of a public referendum on the policy.
The survey also touched on concerns about social and political conflict. Nearly 32 percent of respondents believed the policy would result in a new and severe conflict, while 31.7 percent anticipated conflict, though not severe. Meanwhile, 26.5 percent predicted that disagreements would arise but would not escalate into significant conflict.
Despite the government’s claims that the entertainment complex policy could boost Thailand’s economy, the survey results suggest that public confidence in the plan remains mixed, with many calling for clearer safeguards and greater transparency before the policy moves forward.
It is worth noting that earlier this month, the Thai government confirmed that its Cabinet had 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.
