Former Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Kittiratt sarcastically criticized the opposition government's inaction in combating illegal casinos, while opposing the government's proposal to establish legal casinos.
Kittiratt made a widely discussed comment on Facebook, questioning why there are no protests against illegal casinos in the capital, but strong opposition when the government proposes to build legal casinos and entertainment complexes. He sharply asked, "Are you protecting illegal casinos?"
Kittiratt's remarks indicate that he believes the government's push for legal casino construction is for national economic development, especially in terms of urban development and tourism potential. He pointed out that many countries have successfully promoted economic growth through the development of integrated resorts, transforming these places from crime areas into legal tourist destinations, similar to the Las Vegas model.
He said, "I haven't seen people marching against illegal casinos all over the capital. But when the government wants to build casinos to bring income and development to the country, they go back and protest loudly." He further elaborated on the potential of entertainment complexes as a strategic component, particularly as an important part of the tourism industry, driving urban development and overall economic growth is evident.
Kittiratt also cited Singapore as an example, emphasizing that the country has successfully shaped a friendly future city image by developing modern integrated resorts, becoming a globally renowned tourist destination. He pointed out that Thailand could potentially become the world's third-largest tourist destination, even surpassing Singapore, if it could emulate this development model.
He believes that Las Vegas, as a city that relies on entertainment and casino industries, has not only become a global family vacation destination but also attracted a large number of young people and technology companies, demonstrating the huge potential of all-encompassing resorts.
Ultimately, Kittiratt's remarks pose an important question to society: Why don't we learn from the successful experiences of other countries and adopt a more open attitude to promote the legalization of casinos and entertainment industries, thereby boosting Thailand's economic development?
