Report Abhisit and Deputy Finance Minister to Discuss Casino Plan

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Former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat are set to present their perspectives on the contentious proposal to integrate casinos into Thailand's entertainment sector. The discussion will take place at a special Senate committee meeting on Thursday.

 

Chaired by Senator Veerapun Suvannamai, the committee dedicated to examining the bill will host its fifth session. This marks Mr Julapun's second appearance, offering insights into the government's stance, following the bill’s introduction to parliament.

 

The May 29 meeting included input from Chidtawan Chanakul of Kasetsart University's Faculty of Economics and youth network representatives Sornsit Krimjai and Thanaphat Chaloemrat, who oppose gambling. Mr Chidtawan acknowledged that while the development of such complexes might lead to job creation, the opportunities would primarily target low-skilled labor, limiting their impact on poverty alleviation efforts.

 

Chidtawan also noted that illegal gambling persists even in developed nations, albeit more controlled due to stringent law enforcement as seen in places like the United States and Singapore.

 

The youth network voiced concerns about societal implications, fearing that casino-inclusive entertainment complexes could normalize gambling and potentially lure young people away from education in pursuit of quick gains.

 

As the debate continues, the forthcoming meeting promises to delve deeper into these concerns, balancing potential economic benefits against social risks. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as Thailand evaluates the future of legalized gambling within its borders.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-04