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Report Thailand Recognises Poker as a Sport, Not Gambling
File photo for reference only Thailand's Tourism and Sports Ministry has announced a historic shift in the status of poker, recognising it as a sport while maintaining strict regulations. This move marks a significant development, as poker will now be played under the scrutiny of a forthcoming official association. Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, emphasised that the initiative is not a step towards legalising gambling but part of formalising poker as a competitive sport. This reclassification has been supported by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and awaits official documentation to complete the process within a month. The recent change stems from a ministerial order signed by Interior Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The order relaxes poker restrictions by revoking a longstanding 1958 directive that entirely banned the game. However, poker remains under Category B of the Gambling Act, requiring special permission for events. Minister Sorawong elaborated, "This isn’t full deregulation. Poker will only be played at specific events, and strictly under a formal Poker Sports Association." He insisted that all tournaments adhere to legal processes and official oversight, noting the structured approach to ensure compliance. Though poker’s recognition as a sport is gaining traction globally, Sorawong highlighted the need for careful governance. "The process is being handled through official sports governance. We’re not legalising gambling. Poker is acknowledged as a sport worldwide, and I foresee it being included in major events like the Asian Games," he stated. Concerns about gambling persist, and Sorawong stressed the importance of excluding betting from these events. "Similar to the Olympic acceptance of e-sports, any form of betting renders it illegal. Casual play without permission remains prohibited," he added. In response to questions about unauthorised poker games, Sorawong confirmed that any form involving betting or lacking approval is considered illegal gambling. Chanin Rungthanakiat, secretary to the interior minister, discussed the rationale behind the July 30 directive (Order No.2253/2568), signed by Phumtham. This order rescinds the outdated ban, reflecting poker's evolution as a recognised sport rather than just a gambling activity. Addressing public concerns, Sorawong denied any link between this decision and the government’s controversial entertainment complex initiative. "This decision stands independently. The Interior Ministry's stance on illegal gambling remains firm," he affirmed. The ongoing development indicates a careful yet progressive approach to poker in Thailand, balancing the sport's global recognition with strict regulatory frameworks. As the Poker Sports Association takes shape, the nation watches how this change will unfold in the local and international arenas. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-06 -
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Cost of usufruct
Usufruct and lease are not the same thing. Also, usufruct might be more secure than a lease which can be broken in certain circumstances. However, I seem to remember reading a while ago that a usufruct given by one's spouse is not as secure as with an unrelated person. -
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USA Ghislaine Maxwell’s Staggering Demands for Congressional Testimony
And I will not support Trump even if it turns out he is NOT implicated in Epstein's sex crimes. My differences with him go much, much further than pedophilia or rape. -
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Torrenting
Your ISP will shut down your internet connection immediately and they're ON that action 24 x 7. The first time you must call them with hat in hand. Not sure what they do a second time but I'm sure those financial fines are on the menu. VPN cures all that. Just make sure you have the kill switch on. -
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Where are we going to hold the Aseannow 2025 Xmas bash?
Go look in the mirror........🤔 -
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Torrenting
If I pony up for a CD, I will share it with my friends and family if I think they will like it. I'm not so much concerned about the profits of large corporations. Good humans share what they have whilst keeping enough for themselves. Netflix? No thank you. I watch perhaps one movie every six months. If it's freely available, I'll just help myself thank you.
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