integrated resort

SO, the Integrated Resort has successfully opened on the First Day of the Lunar New Year. It was supposed to help increase the tourism rate in Singapore and help boost the Singapore economy. This is very positive in the government's sense but in my opinion, it would cause a lot of social problems. Just one day after the opening, a tourist was caught stealing in Changi Airport just because he lost all his money during his visit to the casino. I do not think that this would be a good excuse for stealing as one must exhibit self-control when going to the casino. The accused is a tourist, who only came to Singapore for a few days. How about Singaporeans? They can access the casino everyday. Yes, those who are excessive gamblers can choose to ban themselves from the casino, but how effective would it be? It would attract fresh young people to try gambling just for fun. However, in the long term, some might get addicted and hence restarting the new cycle. Hence, I think that starting a casino here might not be a good idea.

Secondly, children might be exposed to gambling. Already, there are a lot of chances to gamble around. 4D, Toto and many more. What do I not understand is why must they place these in supermarkets and department stores? Mothers queue together with children shading 4 numbers. Out of curiosity, children will ask their parents what are they doing. Hence, when they slowly grow up, they would have the wrong concept that gambling is a very common thing and it can be a routine. Introducing the casino, the children would further be exposed to gambling. The Integrated Resort says that it is a family getaway. I find this very ironic. How can a casino be considered a resort for a family? Yes, there is a theme park. However, the adults might be too engrossed in the casino that they forget about the children.

Although there are advertisements everywhere reminding people not to gamble excessively but i do not think that it is very effective. Once a person gets addicted, it does not just take a glance at the ad to curb his/her addiction. Hence, I think that the government should start early and educate the children at a young age about the disadvantages of gambling. This would greatly decrease the chance of them being succumbed to addiction as they absorb information better and would abide by them. Parents also play a heavy role of setting a good example as they have huge influence over them. If parents do not gamble, then their children would be less likely to do otherwise.

Crime rate would also increase if people lose a lot money and starts to get desperate. Loan sharks will also be on the rise chasing debtors for money. This would cause a lot of social unrest in Singapore and Singapore, being reputed for its low crime rate, would attract less tourism. Hence, I suggest that Singapore can develop many other things other than the casino to attract tourists. Singapore can build some interesting theme park unique to its culture etc. Hence I conclude that although the integrated resort may bring properity to Singapore, it may also cause some social problems. Merci beaucoup.