KUCHING: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has hit out at Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) Sarawak commissioner Jofri Jaraiee for claiming that opening of casinos in Sarawak would do more harm than good.
According to Tiong, PAS leaders are often seen resorting to religion when issuing statements which threaten the harmony of the multi-religious and racial society to gain popularity.
“Such actions are dangerous and can cause dissension among the community, as well as complicate the government’s effort to bring economic development in Sarawak,” he said in a statement posted on Facebook.
He was responding to Jofri’s statement that the proposed opening of a casino in Sarawak should be opposed as it it would bring more harm than good to the people.
As a Sarawakian, Tiong said he shoulders a heavy responsibility as the minister at federal-level to bring more development in the country.
“Therefore, my stance regarding the proposed construction of an amusement park and golf course including a casino in Borneo Highlands is clear, which is, that is up to the decision of the state government led by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, as stated by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the existence of an amusement park and golf course including a casino in Borneo Highlands can promote tourism in Sarawak, create many job opportunities, drive the local economy and generate more income for the state.
“Once the plan is confirmed and implemented, basic facilities and tourist attractions in the area will also be improved.
“Of course, the Sarawak government can also use this income to develop rural areas. If it can create an encouraging economic cycle for the benefit of the people, why should it be prevented or opposed?,” he asked.
Tiong said the proposed projects are for the future development of the people of Sarawak, especially to fulfill the dream of rural communities in obtaining basic facilities.
He said the rural communities ought to enjoy the same basic amenities that city dwellers enjoy, which includes a perfect road infrastructure.
“However, this needs to be improved and one of the ways is to increase the state’s income in order to meet the people’s expectations,” he added.
He said if anyone is concerned that the existence of a casino will cause social problems, then a proper supervision should be provided such as only allowing foreigners to enter the casino at any time.
“If they are local people, then they must comply with specific rules to enter the casino and other relevant conditions deemed necessary to be implemented,” said Tiong.
He said although Malaysia is a multi-religious and multi-racial country, the mindset and behaviour of some politicians are more conservative than some Middle Eastern countries.
“On the other hand, many Middle Eastern countries are gradually moving towards moderation, for example, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host Miss World 2023 this year, and there are luxury casinos in the Middle East. Therefore, does Malaysia, especially Sarawak, not have the right to be developed?,” he said.
