Bangkok: Reporters reported that Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, assigned Mr. Kampee Dithakorn, the spokesman of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, to receive a letter from Mr. Thanakun Jit-Isara, the president of the Santi Prachadham Club and the Youth Network Opposing the Establishment of Casinos, regarding the objection to the establishment of casinos and the promotion of online gambling.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thanakun stated that the club and its network partners aim to demonstrate their stance against the establishment of casinos and the promotion of online gambling. Reflecting on the gambling situation in Thai society, he highlighted its expansion into a potential social crisis that threatens the quality of life of many honest individuals. Issues such as crime, robbery, murder, fraud, money laundering, and family disunity have been associated with gambling. The situation includes problems like abandonment, sexual abuse, debts from gambling addiction, suicide, and the influence of vices and drugs, notably affecting new gamblers, children, and youth.
A survey by the Research Center for Social and Business Development, which involved 7,131 samples from the population aged 15 and over in 24 provinces between November 15 and December 27, 2023, found that 63.1 percent of Thais, approximately 34 million people, engaged in gambling in 2023. This trend cuts across all demographics, although working-age individuals were the most involved. Alarmingly, the survey discovered that children aged 15-18 were gambling for the first time, with the total amount reaching several million baht.
The impact of gambling is significant, with 21 percent of gamblers in 2023, around 7 million people, reporting negative effects. Financial problems such as lack of money for daily expenses, selling assets to gamble or settle debts, health issues, and lifestyle problems like stress, mental health issues, and wasted time from work and study were prevalent. Relationship issues, including familial conflicts, deceit about gambling, and loss of friends and relatives, were also noted. The survey highlighted that more than half of Thais disagree with increasing legal gambling, citing its detrimental effect on the future of young people.
Despite these concerns, a cabinet meeting on January 13, 2025, discussed the draft of the Integrated Entertainment Business Act B.E. ..., proposed by the Ministry of Finance and supported by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. The act aims to open integrated entertainment venues and legalize online gambling, potentially boosting economic results by increasing tax revenues and providing clear regulation. However, the potential social impacts remain a significant concern, questioning whether the economic benefits outweigh these consequences.
Mr. Thanakun called on Parliament to act as the primary force in revising the Gambling Act of 1935, urging for modern legislation with a clear focus on controlling gambling, enhancing social protection, safeguarding children and youth, and imposing suitable penalties. He also requested a public hearing on the current government policy to legalize casinos and online gambling, proposing a forum for public opinion. Additionally, he urged Parliament to delay the introduction of the Integrated Entertainment Business Act of 1935 until the completion of the aforementioned actions and to use the legislative process to block laws legalizing online gambling.
The spokesman of the House of Representatives, upon receiving the letter, expressed an intent to address the matter, acknowledging its national importance. He assured that the issue would be investigated through the legislative process and subsequently reported to the House of Representatives President for further consideration and referral to the appropriate committees and agencies.