Bangkok: “Suriya” has revealed that Khlong Toei Port encompasses all necessary elements for development into a casino location. Dismissing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s threat to coalition parties to block the Entertainment Complex Act draft, Suriya emphasizes that differing opinions can be addressed within parliamentary discussions.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, spoke about the opposition to the draft bill concerning the establishment of entertainment complexes. He highlighted the need for Thailand to explore new income sources following increased U.S. import tariffs affecting Thai trade. Suriya pointed out that tourism-driven entertainment complexes could be a significant revenue stream, suggesting that investors would need to inject 100 billion baht to boost GDP. He proposed that these complexes would include large convention centers, offering more comprehensive facilities than existing venues like Muang Thong Thani or BITEC Bangna, appealing to families with diverse activities.

Mr. Suriya acknowledged concerns about gambling addiction, referencing his visit to Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands, where an organization addresses gambling-related family disputes. He noted that Thailand possesses a similar agency and believes the government has considered these issues thoroughly. He urged that further discussions in parliament would allow lawmakers to explain the proposal’s benefits and address public concerns, emphasizing that inaction could perpetuate illegal gambling and cross-border casino visits by Thais.

Regarding Thaksin Shinawatra’s alleged ultimatum to coalition parties, Mr. Suriya dismissed any interference, asserting that such matters fall within governmental jurisdiction.

On the topic of transforming Khlong Toei Port into an entertainment complex, Mr. Suriya explained that the port historically generated income from ship docking. He advocated for development strategies that would enhance revenue generation, such as establishing an entertainment complex. He stressed that any plans must align with the port’s master plan and be carefully evaluated by the Port Authority to ensure economic benefits.