Genting Malaysia Group is going all out in the New York gambling market. Recently, the group submitted a $5.5 billion proposal to the New York State Gaming Commission, proposing to upgrade its Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) in Queens into one of the largest integrated casino resorts in the United States, competing for one of the three remaining commercial casino licenses in downstate.
If the proposal is approved, RWNYC will transform from its current slot machines and video lottery terminal venue into a super resort complex that integrates gambling, accommodation, entertainment, dining, and green spaces. The project will cover approximately 5.6 million square feet, featuring 6,000 slot machines, 800 gambling tables, 2,000 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat performance venue, and over 30 dining and retail facilities. Considering its strategic location near Kennedy International Airport, Genting aims to turn the area into a "world-class gambling city" to attract global tourists.
Robert DeSalvio, President of Genting Americas East, stated that this investment is a fulfillment of a promise made fifteen years ago, "Our goal is to turn RWNYC into a new engine for economic growth in New York, while also creating substantial benefits for the community." According to him, the construction phase will create over 5,000 union jobs, and the total number of employees will reach 5,000 upon official operation, which is five times the current number. Genting commits to offering at least 50% of the new positions to Queens residents, while maintaining the existing staff's diverse structure, where 80% are people of color and nearly half are women.
If successful in obtaining the gaming license, RWNYC expects to launch full gaming services including live table games by July 2026, and be fully operational within six months. Additionally, Genting has pledged to contribute over $1 billion to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in the first five years of the project. Since its opening in 2011, RWNYC has contributed approximately $4.5 billion to the New York State education system.
Facing fierce competition, Genting is leveraging its strong financial capabilities, social commitments, and local contributions to gain an edge. With other bidders including Las Vegas giants and local developers, whether Queens will become the "East Coast Las Vegas" is a focal point of attention from all sectors.
