Bo Bernhard, a dynamic figure as the Vice President of Economic Development at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and a visionary as the Co-Founder of the International Responsible Gaming Alliance, recently graced the bustling streets of Bangkok. His visit wasn’t just a typical sightseeing affair; Bernhard engaged with pro-gaming politicians and seasoned academics, bringing his wealth of knowledge to the forefront to discuss Thailand’s potential leap into the gaming cosmos.
Recalling a conversation from the dawn of the 2000s with the Singapore Tourism Board, Bernhard painted a vivid picture of Singapore’s predicament: a stunning tropical oasis intertwined with a brilliant business and banking hub yet tinged with an air of monotony. It was during a reflective moment high above the vibrant cityscape of Bangkok in an exquisite hotel that Bernhard likened Thailand’s current predicament to Singapore’s past.
Years ago in Singapore, the typical businessman would dash in for a conference and then hightail it back home. Fast forward to today, and the scenario has profoundly changed. Families flock to Singapore, extending their trips into leisurely weekends, thanks to its monumental integrated resorts like the Marina Bay Sands and the World Sentosa Casino—a transformation into a flourishing epicenter not just for grizzled high-stakes poker players but family travelers as well.
Bernhard envisions Bangkok as a contender to outshine Singapore’s glittering allure. With astute investments in colossal entertainment complexes, he believes Bangkok could entice an influx of tourists, ensuring its crown as one of Asia’s premier gaming meccas. “Bangkok has the infrastructure, a world-class airport, and with a couple of opulent resorts, it could surpass Singapore in tourism allure,” Bernhard asserted confidently.
His recent sojourn to Bangkok was an initiative to spark conversations with influential political and economic stakeholders, emphasizing the potential boon casinos could deliver. While not officially aligned with government machinations, Bernhard lent his weighty expertise to advocate for Pheu Thai Party’s intent to legalize casinos—a notion proving to be quite the political firecracker.
The flames of debate were fanned when, in an April whirlwind, the proposed casino bill sparked protests, perceived as being thrust through parliamentary doors with alarming alacrity. Responding to the uproar, Pheu Thai has agreed to momentarily shelve the bill, yet the discussions persist with no defined revisions in sight.
The heart of contention lies in the gargantuan scale of proposed developments—envisioning a titanic resort hub designed to pull tourists like moths to a flame irrespective of seasonal shifts. Imagine, a thriving hive encompassing a shopping mall, sun-soaked water park, rollicking theme park, and beyond, with gaming occupying a mere tenth of this opulent domain. However, entry would come with a price: visitors register, pay a fee, and Thai nationals would need a hefty bank balance as proof of residency style.
Critics, however, remain circumspect. Opposition voices, led by MP Rangsiman Rome, caution against the dangers of unchecked development, citing precarious precedents in neighboring countries where lawlessness has taken root under the guise of similar ventures.
To Bernhard, these pitfalls are avoidable. During tête-à-têtes with selected media, he affirmed that serious gaming operators favor robust regulations akin to what one encounters in meticulously managed jurisdictions. “Prestigious operators don’t fear the law; they seek rigorous standards—laws that equate to clean, accountable revenue streams and allure genuine, world-class investments,” Bernhard elaborated.
In his analogy of global gaming titans, Bernhard unwrapped the operations of heavyweights like MGM Resorts International—a multifaceted entertainment behemoth, juxtaposed with Las Vegas Sands’ penchant for business tourism. “Feathers in their caps from diversifying interests, these companies spread risks across ventures, and Thailand stands as the next enticing plum to pluck,” he declared.
Economics scholar Narongchai Yaisawang backed Bernhard’s enthusiasm, noting echoes of Las Vegas’s tourism vibrancy. Where Vegas visitors splash out between $2,000 and $5,000 per visit, Thailand’s guests drop a more modest $1,500, hinting at untapped potential.
The allure of this new epoch is underscored by exciting times ahead for the ‘fun economy’—a robust marketplace driven by tourism, sports, and entertainment pursuits. A middle-class majority emerges worldwide, and Thailand has its sights set on captaining this cruise ship of opportunity. “In coming decades, with middle-class swells, a stagnant Thailand risks washing away in a tide of competition. Yet fortune favors the bold, so seize this moment or risk being left high and dry,” Bernhard mused eloquently, his words resonating through the energetic streets of Bangkok.
I think introducing casinos in Bangkok is a fantastic idea! Imagine the tourism boom it would create.
You’re forgetting about the potential downsides, like gambling addiction and corruption.
Every form of entertainment has its risks, but the economic benefits could outweigh the negatives.
And not to mention, casinos often attract crime and unsavory activities. Is this really what Bangkok needs?
If regulated well, it can be a safe and profitable venture. Look at Singapore!
Bangkok will never be able to challenge Singapore. They should focus on what makes them unique.
I saw developments like these in Cambodia, and it led to more inequality. Thailand needs to be careful.
But Cambodia’s situation is different. Bangkok already has a strong infrastructure to support this.
I just want to visit a world-class water park in Bangkok. Not interested in the casinos.
This is such a complex issue. Economic growth is important, but so are social implications.
That’s why responsible gaming and strict regulations are key. You’ve hit the nail on the head!
Why can’t they add those Mario Kart rides like in Tokyo instead of casinos?
Great idea, Timmy! But casinos bring more money than theme parks.
Tourism may rise, but will it actually benefit the average Thai, or just the elites?
Exactly! We need to ensure the wealth trickles down to everyone, not just the rich.
Isn’t this just a way for the government to increase its revenue without addressing real issues?
Gambling always has a dark side. I just hope they think this through before going ahead.
With the right controls, I believe the benefits will be worth it.
Bangkok lacks in entertainment options when compared to other major cities, a fact like this might change that.
But do casinos really make a city more entertaining, or just richer?
I wonder if Thai culture will change with such investments. It’d be sad to see traditions fade.
What about the environment? Building massive complexes is bound to have an ecological impact.
I agree, Samantha. Sustainability should be a top priority in these plans.
It seems like everyone just wants a piece of the pie without considering if the pie is good for health.
I get your point, but if managed correctly, the pie can be beneficial. Proper regulations are key.