The entertainment complex bill advocated by former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has sparked public debate. The bill aims to establish comprehensive entertainment facilities, offering a variety of entertainment options, with casinos accounting for less than 10% of the facilities. Despite the government's emphasis on broader economic and tourism benefits, critics call the move a push for a "sin economy."
According to reports, Thaksin has responded to concerns about the potential for money laundering and other illegal activities, attributing public opposition to misunderstandings about the bill's intentions.
He has called on legislators to clarify the proposal and shift the focus from casinos to diversified services within the complex. He also dismissed calls for a national referendum, advocating for a swift legislative process so that regulatory agencies can begin work next year.
Strict Casino Licensing Bidding Process
The former prime minister also stated that the proposed framework is based on a strict casino licensing bidding process. Thaksin explained that only operators who can demonstrate significant benefits to tourism and government revenue will be granted licenses. He highlighted the economic potential of the complex, estimating that each location would create 20,000 local jobs, with competitive starting salaries.
The model draws on Singapore's experience, where casinos are just a small part of large entertainment centers. Thaksin assured that gambling activities would be strictly regulated, with restrictions allowing only wealthy Thais to gamble, thus reducing financial risks.
Criticism of the "Sin Economy"
Critics, including Democrat Party member Alongkorn Ponlaboot, have expressed concerns about the social impact of the bill.
In a post on Facebook, he pointed out that focusing on industries such as gambling, alcohol, and other morally controversial activities could erode the nation's moral foundation. Alongkorn questioned whether Thailand should adopt such an economic strategy and urged the public to consider alternative national development options.
Economic Recovery and Long-Term Vision
Thaksin views the entertainment complex plan as part of a broader strategy to revitalize Thailand's economy, which he claims is burdened with high public debt.
He hopes these complexes will boost tourism, generate significant revenue, and improve local livelihoods. During a speech in Nakhon Pathom, he outlined plans for Las Vegas-style complexes, including sports venues, convention centers, and unique attractions such as water parks and ski resorts.
Thaksin also made bold predictions about Thailand's economic future, expecting that by 2026, there will be no pawnshops in Thailand, and by 2030, the population will be affluent.
Despite the controversy, the entertainment complex bill continues to be deliberated in parliament and has attracted interest from international operators such as Melco Resorts & Entertainment, MGM China, and Galaxy Entertainment.
