Summary
- The Thai Hotel Association has held discussions about the development of new entertainment complexes.
- President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun has recommended alternative sites in secondary locations as preferable to the ones originally proposed.
- Thailand must ensure that the entire process occurs transparently.
Entertainment complexes are in development in Thailand, but the specifics are still evolving. Following the government's announcement of four selected locations—Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai, and Phuket—various parties have quickly proposed ideas for this initiative.
Secondary cities should get a share of the entertainment complex pie
The Thai Hotel Association (THA) has proposed its own suggestion for potential locations of new entertainment complexes, though the final sites are still undecided and under discussion. THA President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun recommends that referendums be conducted in these provinces where the complexes are planned. Thienprasit is joined by various Thai academics in expressing concerns about the potential sites. They argue that casino resorts could be unsustainable due to challenges the country faces in regulating high-risk areas such as gambling. While Thienprasit is not against the idea of casino resorts, his focus is on the suitability of the proposed locations. He believes that these complexes should be built in secondary cities, where the economic boost would be more beneficial. He specifically pointed out that government-proposed locations like Phuket and Pattaya face water shortages during the summer months when tourist numbers peak. Thienprasit also urged the government to uphold stringent transparency measures, emphasizing the importance of knowing who enters casino properties at all times. Meanwhile, local residents are concerned about the potential negative impacts these developments could have on their communities.
Locals are still worried about the pernicious effects of building entertainment complexes
Crime, gambling issues, and organized crime are major concerns for ordinary Thais who view these projects with both hope and fear due to the potential economic impact. Experts suggest that, because of Thailand's struggles with corruption, a new resort might not bring economic advantages but instead could reinforce the dominance of already powerful and well-connected companies and individuals. Nonetheless, the Thai government appears committed to proceeding with its plans.
