Operator News

Malaysia – Malaysian minister not opposed to country’s second casino in Borneo Highlands

By Phil - 24 April 2023

Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has said there would be nothing wrong with setting up a second casino in Malaysia in the state as Sarawak is home to all different religions.

He added that a casino would not be the only attraction earmarked for the redevelopment of the Borneo Highlands Resort as there would be other amenities such as a golf course and amusement park.

“They must remember that Sarawak is not for the Muslims only. Why don’t they make noise about the opening of 4D or Toto outlets?” he explained. “These are also ‘haram’ for the Muslims. But when the casino idea was mooted, everybody gets excited without realising that the casino is not the only thing to be set up at the Borneo Highland resort.”

His response came after Sarawak PAS chief Jofri Jaraiee said opening a casino in the state would cause gambling addiction, leading to the ruin of society and families.

Abdul Karim reiterated that the decision to set up the casino would be made by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Caption: Resorts World Genting, currently the only casino in Malaysia