The rising influence of Islamic parties in Malaysia could threaten Genting's more than 50 year history as a purveyor of casino gambling at its resort in the Genting Highlands in the state of Pahang. As PAS solidifies control over several states, it raises concerns regarding the future of the only casino in Malaysia, given the party's public stance against gambling, which is deemed harmful according to its ideology.
'Gambling is harmful, so we have to close it,' Andansura Rabu, deputy commissioner for Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS), stated during the party's annual gathering, emphasizing PAS's strategy to appeal to the Muslim majority in Malaysia. His comments underline the potential for significant political shifts that could threaten Genting's operations if PAS secures further control in Pahang and influences national policy.
Andansura admitted that even a PAS victory in Pahang may not be sufficient to ensure the casino's closure. 'The power may not be absolutely on the state's side, and we may need the federal government as well,' he acknowledged, indicating the complexities involved in such a decision and the need for collaboration between state and federal authorities to effectively address gambling laws.
Genting’s casino generates significant revenue for the Malaysian government through taxation and duties. The economic implications of any moves to restrict or shut down the casino are profound, as Genting's leisure and hospitality revenue reached 6.42 billion ringgit, highlighting the financial entanglement between casino operations and state revenue generation in Malaysia.
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