Parliament Prepares to Debate Thailand's Entertainment Complex Bill

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Thailand is gearing up for a critical parliamentary debate on the entertainment complex bill, expected to take centre stage by April 9. The bill, approved by the Cabinet on March 27, is set to be deliberated in the House, as confirmed by chief government whip Wisut Chainarun.

 

Wisut, a list-MP from Pheu Thai, assured that the bill would receive ample discussion time. While coalition MPs are anticipated to support it, dialogue with the opposition remains pending. The bill promises significant economic potential, especially in popular tourist destinations like Phuket.

 

Phuket Tourist Association President, Thanet Tantipiriyakit, is optimistic, advocating for a world-class entertainment venue minus casinos, highlighting family-friendly attractions to extend tourist stays. Proposals include a high-end water park, sports complex, cultural centre, or theme park, aimed at attracting longer visits and increased spending.

 

 

 

Currently, tourists typically spend five to eight days in Phuket. Thanet argues that enhancing entertainment options could bolster local tourism and reduce dependency on seasonal visitors. The government sees the bill as transformative, with entertainment complexes featuring concert halls, sports arenas, water parks, and limited casino areas, potentially generating 119–283 billion baht annually and boosting foreign arrivals by 5–10%.

 

However, not all are convinced of the bill's merits. Political activist Jatuporn Prompan staged a protest outside Government House, voicing concerns over potential social issues arising from legalised gambling. He warned that it could lead to increased crime and family disruptions, and even enlisted a monk to highlight the moral implications.

 

As the debate looms, Thailand stands at a crossroads, balancing economic ambitions with societal concerns. The outcome could reshape the nation's entertainment landscape, impacting tourism and local communities alike, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-03-31

 

 

[crazykopite]

Suppose this is more important than all those missing and the recent damage in BKK after the earthquake there attention should be 100% of recovery and structural inspection around the whole City