Islamic scholars oppose casino plans

Islamic scholars in Singapore have come out against plans to open the country’s first casino, saying that it could undermine the work ethic of its residents and foster vice.

“The addictive effect of gambling is real and cannot be refuted,” said Mohamad (cor) Hasbi Hassan, president of Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association.

A casino would “undermine efforts to inculcate the practice of hard work and honesty among our people,” he said.

The broadside will stoke an already heated debate in the wealthy south-east Asian country about whether to open a casino to attract high-rolling tourists, create jobs, and boost tax revenues.

After years of opposing the idea on fears it could boost gambling addictions and organised crime, the government floated the possibility in March.

Officials are canvassing local opinion and examining gambling operations in Macau, China and Las Vegas. A decision is due by the end of the year.

Singapore already allows betting on horse races and other sports, as well as slot machines.

The casino proposal has won a warm reception from international gambling companies, and local proponents have sent a stream of letters of support to local papers.

Singapore – a largely ethnic Chinese country – has a small community of Muslims, mostly Malays, who account for about 14% of the population.