In a twist of melody and might, the legendary troubadour of Thailand, Yuenyong Opakul—forever known in the hearts of many as “Ad Carabao”—has raised his voice against the tides of controversy. With the strum of conviction that parallels his iconic tunes, Ad Carabao has firmly opposed the colossal casino-entertainment project being placed on the table, asserting that such ventures are like a tempest in a teapot, generating more harm than harmony.
Pouring out his thoughts with the same fervor that fuels his music, Yuenyong, who also champions the cause as the president of the Thai Cockfighting Association, took to Facebook to articulate his concerns. His virtual bullhorn rang clear—casinos and the digital dazzle of online gambling should be strictly off the books in Thailand. A warning laced with wisdom: these enterprises could bring about calamities rather than casinos, turning winners into whiners and fortunes into fiascos.
“Now, let’s not meander into matters of the mysterious 14th floor—some escape, some stay, but that’s not the refrain here. My chords strum to the tune of casinos and online gambling. From these ventures, only a handful might profit while our beloved nation faces the symphony of loss. Abandon this tomfoolery; the tune is just not worth the trouble,” he opined with fortitude.
His enigmatic reference to the 14th floor harkens back to undercurrents swirling around former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. While the ex-leader spent time on the 14th floor in a snug suite at Police General Hospital, serving a one-year term, Ad Carabao’s words cast a long shadow of concern.
Against the backdrop of this lyrical opposition, the government’s crescendo—a casino-entertainment complex bill—aims to shuffle the cards and deal legalised, regulated operations to jumpstart the economy and create new revenue symphonies. Yet, the critics’ chorus has led to a pause in legislation, pushing discussions to a future parliamentary symphony set to open curtains on July 2.
The steady rhythm of critiques continues with Assoc Prof Chittawan Chanagul from Kasetsart University’s Faculty of Economics chiming in. She amplified her disapproval on Sunday, voicing critique against Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat for harmonizing too soon with potential casino entrepreneurs before the House grants the final nod.
Amidst this symphony of dissent, Bank of Thailand’s governor, Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, laid down a resolute bassline about the venture’s ambiguous status. He cautioned that the casino project sits in a hazy grey area that threatens to besmirch Thailand’s international image. His advice: hit the high notes with “white,” fully legitimate businesses to safeguard the nation’s global standing.
In a counterpoint, Mr. Julapun drew parallels from global stages, citing Singapore and the United States as jokers in the deck who host such complex establishments without donning the “grey” hue.
In a fierce rebuttal, Assoc Prof Chittawan pointed out that casinos are the perennial pied pipers of monetary enigmas and crime. She struck a cautionary note, highlighting a sordid saga from Las Vegas where a casino was caught in the whirlpool of a money-laundering scandal, its wheels greased with oversight that appeared to turn a blind eye—a known harmony in the casino industry’s sheet music.
She earnestly reminded that on the world stage, Thailand shuffles uneasily with its 107th place in Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index. A stark contrast to Singapore and the United States, leaving Thailand’s moral sinews sorely tested in this bout of economic virtuosities.
I can’t believe they’re still considering casinos in Thailand! Isn’t the country facing enough problems without the chaos this will bring?
You’re right! Our culture and reputation are at stake. Why risk it all for the fleeting profit of a casino?
Exactly! Our country should focus on sustainable growth, not these get-rich-quick schemes.
Profit is fleeting, but the social costs are lasting. Poor will lose more than they gain!
Casinos can really boost tourism, though. Look at Singapore—it’s not all doom and gloom!
Singapore is a totally different case. That level of regulation takes time and effort we haven’t shown yet.
Fair point, but could we not learn and adapt? Tough problems don’t always need simple solutions.
Ad Carabao is a musical legend. If he says no to casinos, we should listen!
He’s great, but we can’t make decisions based on one person’s opinion, famous or not.
At least he’s got more heart and wisdom than most politicians!
While I agree with Ad on some fronts, casinos aren’t inherently evil. They just need strict regulation.
Regulation, huh? That’s what they said about online gambling, and look where we are now!
True, but without trying to regulate properly, we won’t know what balance we can achieve.
Why does anyone ever think Thailand needs a casino at all? It’s a dangerous game!
While casinos promise economic benefits, they often lead to increased crime rates and social issues. It’s not worth it.
Yes, but Thailand’s economy also needs a shot in the arm. Can’t ignore both sides.
It boils down to priority. Do we prioritize quick fixes or sustainable solutions?
Ad Carabao is championing the voice of reason. More people should stand up against this madness!
It’s a fine line. Casinos could make Thailand a tourism hotspot, but we have to tread carefully.
How about focusing on education and innovation instead of casinos? It’s a better long-term strategy.
Could it be that Ad has ulterior motives tied to his role with the Cockfighting Association?
Interesting thought, but I doubt he’d sacrifice his credibility for personal gain.
Maybe one day Thailand will find the perfect balance. But today doesn’t feel like that day.
Every great city has its vices, but they’re controlled and managed. Maybe Thailand could do the same?
I fear if Thailand doesn’t embrace some form of legalized gambling, unregulated ones will continue to flourish.
But where do we draw the line? Legalizing could open another Pandora’s Box.
We need strong government oversight. It can’t be perfect, but better than total chaos.
Always two sides to every coin, but this project needs much more scrutiny before proceeding.
Should we let economic urgency dictate our moral compass? I think we need a deeper discussion.
As always, this discussion comes down to money versus morality. What weighs more?
I admire Ad’s resolve here. We need to preserve what makes Thailand unique—not just follow global trends mindlessly.
Globalization has its costs, indeed. Still, can growth happen without some pain?
True, but some sacrifices change us irreparably. That’s my concern.
Maybe Thailand is just not ready for casinos yet, but never say never.