Entertainment Complex Bill to be debated in Parliament by April 9
The much-discussed Entertainment Complex Bill is set to be reviewed in Parliament soon, with a likely discussion date of April 9, according to Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun. The bill, which was approved by the Cabinet on March 27, is designed to boost Thailand’s economy by diversifying tourism beyond its traditional seasonal peaks.
Wisut, a Pheu Thai list-MP, provided an update on Sunday, March 30, stating that Parliament has yet to receive confirmation on when the bill will be submitted for consideration. It will almost certainly be discussed by April 9.
Wisut reassured that ample time would be allocated for the bill’s discussion, adding that coalition MPs are likely to support the proposal. However, talks with the opposition on the matter have yet to take place.
Tourism operators in Phuket have voiced their support for the bill, with the hope that it could spark economic growth and revitalise the tourism industry.
Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) President Thanet Tantipiriyakit highlighted that while a world-class entertainment venue would be beneficial, the inclusion of a casino might not be as appealing to family-oriented travellers.
Thanet suggested that alternatives, such as a world-class water park, sports complex, or cultural and arts centre, could also attract quality tourists who are likely to stay longer and spend more.
Currently, tourists typically stay in Phuket for five to eight days, mainly drawn by its stunning beaches. Thanet believes that a well-designed entertainment complex, without the focus on gambling, could significantly extend the length of their stay and encourage greater spending across the island.
The government, however, maintains that the entertainment complex bill aims to stimulate the economy by diversifying away from the seasonal tourism model. Under the current version of the bill, the complexes would primarily feature concert halls, indoor sports arenas, water parks, and hotels, with casinos making up only 10% of the total space, reported Bangkok Post.
This ambitious project is projected to bring in between 119 and 283 billion baht annually and increase the number of foreign visitors to Thailand by 5 to 10%. Yet, not everyone is on board.
Political activist Jatuporn Prompan voiced his concerns at a protest in front of Government House last Saturday, March 29, warning that legalising gambling would lead to increased crime and social issues, such as family problems. He also invited a monk to deliver a sermon on the negative effects of gambling, which was heard by the Cabinet on April 1.
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