Entertainment Complex Bill Set for Parliament Review on April 9

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The much-debated Entertainment Complex Bill is slated for parliamentary discussion, likely on April 9, as confirmed by Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun. This bill, aimed at bolstering Thailand's economy by enhancing tourism beyond its seasonal peaks, received Cabinet approval on March 27.

 

Wisut, a Pheu Thai list-MP, updated on March 30 that while Parliament awaits official submission, preparations are being made to ensure ample debate time. Coalition support seems probable, though dialogue with the opposition remains pending.

 

Endorsement from Phuket's tourism sector underscores the bill's potential to invigorate the local economy. Phuket Tourist Association President Thanet Tantipiriyakit advocates for world-class amenities, like water parks or cultural centres, that could appeal to families, as opposed to casinos, which may deter family-oriented travellers.

 

Tourists currently visit Phuket for 5-8 days, primarily attracted by the beaches. Thanet suggests that an entertainment complex without a primary focus on gambling could extend visitor stays and spending.

 

 

 

The government's initiative envisions facilities like concert halls, indoor sports arenas, and water parks, with casinos comprising only 10% of the infrastructure. The proposed development could generate 119 to 283 billion baht annually and attract 5-10% more foreign visitors.

 

However, not all feedback is positive. Political activist Jatuporn Prompan, at a March 29 protest, cautioned that legitimising gambling might increase crime and societal issues. A monk sermonising on gambling's drawbacks was notably directed at the Cabinet on April 1.

 

As the Parliament prepares to review the bill, discussions will balance economic aspirations with potential social impacts, aiming for a diversified, sustainable tourism model, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-04-04

 

 

[smedly]

what a complete pile of doung

 

greedy people, this will destroy thailnd

 

thaksin, you corrupt greedy f###ker, I feel sorry for the thai people, here we have the most  corrupt  family running thailand again, MFP  were eelection winners but got ### over with absolutely nonsense bs, this is why Thailand remains 3rd world, it really is a shame - it could be better. much better

[quake]

The sky will not fall. 

Go there Thailand.

Move forward and up.

Welcome to the 21st century. 

[henryford1958]

51 minutes ago, smedly said:

what a complete pile of doung

 

greedy people, this will destroy thailnd

 

thaksin, you corrupt greedy f###ker, I feel sorry for the thai people, here we have the most  corrupt  family running thailand again, MFP  were eelection winners but got ### over with absolutely nonsense bs, this is why Thailand remains 3rd world, it really is a shame - it could be better. much better

 

They have already destroyed Phuket aka New Russia, this will finish the job

[hotchilli]

It will eventually pass, as the government will push it through.

Developers will get rich building them, investors will get rich later and the elites will enjoy using the facilities.

The rest of the country will continue to do what it always does... survive