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Gambling in Singapore |
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On April 18, 2005, the Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Hsien Loong announced that the Cabinet had decided that the policy of barring casinos from Singapore was to be changed. Over concerns from the opposition that felt there would be impacts from allowing casinos to become established, the legislation was passed. While stand-alone casinos will still remain barred, integrated resorts, such as hotel casino resorts, will be permitted.
Many proposals had been made seeking to allow casino gambling to become legal in Singapore, but had always failed. The economy in Singapore took a downturn, raising interest in establishing a casino in at least one location as long as it was a world-class establishment. At that time, it was felt that the boost to the economy would not justify the social impacts of casino gambling. The Prime Minister and other government officials felt there were be a flood of illegal activities such as money laundering and organized crime.
The government and the people began to recognize that tourism would improve with the advent of casino resorts. Singapore realized it could not remain still and become an emerging new world city as was required to support the population of the area.
By choosing the concept of having two integrated casino resorts, Singapore hopes to boost themselves into a better economic position, increase tourism and gain standing in the global world of commerce.
One challenge to this entire concept has been the fact that Islamic money is prevalent in Singapore. And Islam does not allow gambling, alcohol and other "sinful activities" that go along with the concept of gaming. This could cause investor problems between the people of Islam and the Singapore government and economy. However, Islamic money is not the only money in Singapore.
By allowing only two integrated resorts, a bidding war occurred between major gaming corporations such as MGM and Harrah's. Everyone wants a piece of the action in Singapore, but the government will only allow two to enter, so who will they be? It’s Harrah’s for certain. The Singapore government only wanted the best and the finest on a level of the greatest of Las Vegas' casino resorts. They wanted amenities and much, much more than just gaming. And of course, Harrah’s can deliver but so could MGM.
While the legislation was originally so restrictive that it was doubtful that any company would be able to meet the criteria, in February, 2006 the regulatory controls were relaxed somewhat. It is a sure gamble that only the biggest of big names will appear in the final outcome of who will be building those two big integrated resorts.
The plans continue for the integrated resort casinos to include slot game, blackjack, craps, roulette and all the usual gaming favorites. It is expected that world-class entertainment will be part of the venue as well. Fine and casual dining, of course, is a must with any casino. The Singapore government supports the idea that there must be a lot more than a room with slots and a hotel stuck on top of it. They realize this will do nothing for their economy or world standing.
The ideas that Singapore chooses to implement will be very interesting. It is a great time to consider planning a vacation to Singapore before too long so that you can see the newest of the new and, hopefully, the best of the best in resort casinos. |
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