In a bold and controversial move, Malaysia’s Islamic political party, the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), has vowed to shut down a casino in Pahang if it gains control of the state government in the upcoming elections. The party, which is known for its conservative stance on social issues, has long been critical of gambling and its negative impact on society.
Speaking at a rally in the state capital of Kuantan, PAS leader Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang reiterated the party’s stance on gambling, calling it “harmful and destructive” to the community. He pointed to the high rates of addiction, bankruptcies, and social problems that often accompany gambling establishments, arguing that they have no place in a Muslim-majority country like Malaysia.
The casino in question, which is located in the Genting Highlands resort area near Pahang, is one of the largest and most popular in the country. It is a major source of revenue for the state government and provides thousands of jobs to local residents. However, PAS has long been critical of the casino’s presence, arguing that the social costs far outweigh any economic benefits.
The party’s pledge to shut down the casino if it gains control of Pahang has sparked debate and controversy across the country. Supporters of PAS argue that gambling is indeed harmful and goes against Islamic principles, while opponents say that the casino is a vital source of income for the state and provides much-needed jobs to the local population.
Critics also point out that shutting down the casino could have a negative impact on the country’s tourism industry, as the Genting Highlands resort area is a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors. They argue that the loss of revenue from the casino could have far-reaching consequences for the economy and the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
Despite the controversy, PAS remains firm in its stance on gambling and has vowed to prioritize the well-being of the community over economic gains. The party’s promise to shut down the casino in Pahang if it gains control of the state government has added a new dimension to an already heated political debate in Malaysia, where social issues often intersect with economic concerns.
As the election date draws near, the future of the casino in Pahang remains uncertain. The outcome of the polls could determine whether PAS is able to follow through on its pledge to close down the casino, or if the status quo will be maintained. Whatever the result, one thing is clear: the debate over the impact of gambling on society is far from over in Malaysia.