Pahang DAP: Closing Genting casino hurts economy, Muslim jobs
Published: Sep 15, 2024 6:46 PM
Pahang DAP chief Lee Chin Chen expressed shock at Pahang PAS’ goal to close gambling establishments, including the Genting Highlands casino.
He said such a move could hurt the economy, including the livelihoods of Muslims working at the tourist destination.
In a statement today, Lee said Genting Highlands has operated peacefully since 1971, with clear restrictions that its casinos limit entry to non-Muslims, and security personnel at entrances ensure visitors meet the entry requirements.
He added that Genting Highlands is one of Malaysia’s internationally renowned tourist destinations, generating substantial tourism revenue.
He noted that as of March this year, 1,724,924 domestic and international tourists had visited Genting Highlands, a 15.17 percent increase compared to the first quarter of last year.
“This clearly shows that Genting Highlands is not just an entertainment venue but also a major source of tourism income for Pahang.
Genting casino
“Genting Highlands employs tens of thousands of workers, the majority of whom are Muslims.
“If PAS closes Genting purely for ideological reasons, it will affect the livelihood of these employees and cause significant harm to the national economy,” he said in a statement today.
Lee, who is also the Bilut assemblyperson, further said the Madani government is actively working to boost the country’s economic growth, with one key objective being the restoration of investor confidence in Malaysia.
Hence, he said PAS’ proposal to ban gambling could likely undermine investor confidence, pushing investments to other Southeast Asian countries, and severely impacting the national economy.
Leading to ethnic divisions
Lee emphasised that Malaysia’s progress and prosperity have been built on mutual tolerance and respect among various ethnic groups, but PAS seems to be trying to divide the nation by stirring up racial tensions.
He warned that if this situation persists, it could lead to ethnic divisions, causing the nation’s economy to stagnate.
Earlier today, Pahang PAS deputy commissioner Andansura Rabu said his party chapter is committed to closing gambling premises, including the casino in Genting Highlands, if the party captures Pahang in the next state election.
However, he said in the case of Genting Highlands, there might be a federal obstacle to their goal.
The PAS non-Muslim supporters wing also seemingly backed the proposal while challenging the federal ruling coalition to impose a ban on gambling in all states under its control.
“Genting Highlands employs tens of thousands of workers, the majority of whom are Muslims.
“If PAS closes Genting purely for ideological reasons, it will affect the livelihood of these employees and cause significant harm to the national economy,” he said in a statement today.
Lee, who is also the Bilut assemblyperson, further said the Madani government is actively working to boost the country’s economic growth, with one key objective being the restoration of investor confidence in Malaysia.
Hence, he said PAS’ proposal to ban gambling could likely undermine investor confidence, pushing investments to other Southeast Asian countries, and severely impacting the national economy.
Leading to ethnic divisions
Lee emphasised that Malaysia’s progress and prosperity have been built on mutual tolerance and respect among various ethnic groups, but PAS seems to be trying to divide the nation by stirring up racial tensions.
He warned that if this situation persists, it could lead to ethnic divisions, causing the nation’s economy to stagnate.
Earlier today, Pahang PAS deputy commissioner Andansura Rabu said his party chapter is committed to closing gambling premises, including the casino in Genting Highlands, if the party captures Pahang in the next state election.
However, he said in the case of Genting Highlands, there might be a federal obstacle to their goal.
The PAS non-Muslim supporters wing also seemingly backed the proposal while challenging the federal ruling coalition to impose a ban on gambling in all states under its control.
My PAS contact, who has a Masters degree from an Australian University, supports the closure of all gambling in his birth state, Pahang.
ReplyDeleteHe replied that he well understands the economic impact.
"The Theme Park , entertainment and cool climate will continue to attract visitors and tourists. The loss from gambling is necessary".
I used to think the Islamic Caliphate was primarily supported by the Kampung Pakcik and Makciks.
ReplyDeleteNot true.
After decades of indoctrination at school level, the Islamic State agenda is now being driven by the Malay educated middle class...many graduates of Western universities.
Their exposure to the West has actually hardened their attitudes..a kind of reverse soft power.