In a bold and controversial move, the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) has announced its intention to push for the closure of the nation’s only casino, Resorts World Genting, located in the Genting Highlands. The decision has sparked heated debates and polarized opinions across the country, with supporters of the move lauding it as a step towards upholding Islamic principles and morality, while critics argue that it will have negative repercussions on the economy and tourism industry.
PAS, which is known for its conservative Islamic agenda, has long opposed gambling and other vices, citing them as immoral and harmful to society. The party’s president, Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang, has been a vocal critic of the casino industry in Malaysia, calling for its closure on numerous occasions. Now, with the backing of its allies in the ruling coalition government, PAS is determined to make good on its promise to shut down the controversial establishment.
Resorts World Genting, operated by the Genting Group, is a sprawling complex that includes hotels, restaurants, shopping outlets, and entertainment facilities in addition to the casino. It is a major tourist destination in Malaysia, drawing millions of visitors annually from around the world. The resort is also a significant source of revenue for the country, contributing billions of ringgit to the economy each year.
The announcement of PAS’s push to close the casino has sent shockwaves through the business community, with many expressing concerns about the potential impact on tourism and the economy. In response to the news, the Genting Group has issued a statement stressing the importance of the resort in supporting the local economy and providing employment opportunities for thousands of Malaysians.
Critics of the move argue that closing the casino would not only result in job losses and a decline in tourism revenue, but also push the industry underground, making it harder to regulate and control. They point to other countries where bans on gambling have led to a rise in illicit activities and organized crime. They also question the feasibility of such a drastic measure, given the legal and financial implications involved.
Supporters of the move, on the other hand, argue that closing the casino is a necessary step to protect the moral fabric of Malaysian society. They believe that gambling goes against Islamic teachings and values, and that the government has a duty to uphold the principles of the religion in a Muslim-majority country. They also point to the negative social consequences of gambling, including addiction, bankruptcy, and broken families.
As the debate rages on, the fate of Resorts World Genting hangs in the balance. The Genting Group has vowed to fight the proposed closure, arguing that it would have far-reaching consequences for the company and the country as a whole. The government, meanwhile, is under pressure to balance the demands of its coalition partners with the needs of the economy and the concerns of the public.
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: the decision to close Malaysia’s only casino will have far-reaching implications for the country and its people. It remains to be seen whether PAS will succeed in its push to shut down Resorts World Genting, or if the resort will continue to operate in defiance of the party’s wishes. One thing is for sure – the debate over the future of gambling in Malaysia is far from over.