Hawai‘i and Utah are the two most restrictive states when it comes to gambling—banning all forms of it. They are among a handful of states that don’t have lotteries. Singapore has been experimenting with gambling in recent years—and there’s controversy about a new development coming later this month. HPR’s Bill Dorman has more in today’s Asia Minute.
Online gambling could be legal in Singapore by the end of next month. There are restrictions to the cyber gaming, but the government’s decision to approve the plans has sparked some outrage. The country’s National Council of Churches wants the government to reconsider. Singapore has a complicated history when it comes to gambling.
Legalized casino gambling started in 2010, despite the misgivings of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and others. Developers used the casinos to push tourism, but the government imposed tight controls, discouraging locals from taking part, and keeping a tight lid on other kinds of gambling—including the online variety.
Now two companies have been cleared to accept bets, allowing people to play two kinds of lotteries...as well as bet on soccer, horse races, and Formula One racing. But there are no poker games, no bingo, and no casino games. You have to be 21 to play, and you have to set a daily limit on how much you’re willing to lose.
Still, the Council of Churches says banning online gambling would “strengthen the fabric of our society for generations to come.” Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs says the global online gambling market is now $40 billion dollars, and growing about 7% a year.
