DATUK Seri Tiong King Sing has expressed confidence that the proposed construction 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.
He said once the plan is confirmed and implemented, the basic facilities and tourist attractions in the surrounding areas will also be improved.
“Of course, the Sarawak government can also use this income to develop rural areas. If it can create a good and encouraging economic cycle for the benefit of the people, why should it be prevented or objected to?” he said in a statement on Facebook.
Tiong was responding to Sarawak PAS commissioner Jofri Jaraiee’s recent statement that the proposed opening of a casino in Sarawak should be opposed as it would bring more harm than good to the people.
In his criticism of Jofri, Tiong said the PAS leader is often seen using religion when issuing statements, which could threaten the harmony of the multi-religious and multi-racial communities in the country just to gain popularity.
“Such action is dangerous and can cause dissension among the community while impeding the government’s efforts to boost the state’s economic development,” the Bintulu MP remarked.
Tiong further said that the proposed projects are for the future development of the people in Sarawak, especially to fulfil the dream of the rural community in securing basic facilities.
“[The rural community] cannot wait to get the same amenities as those in the urban areas, including good road infrastructure. This needs to be improved through efforts to increase the state’s income in order to meet the people’s expectations,” he noted.
If anyone is concerned that the presence of a casino may generate social issues, Tiong suggests that sufficient monitoring should be implemented, such as permitting foreigners to access the casino at any time.
“If they are local people, then they must comply with the specific rules to enter the casino, and other relevant conditions that are deemed necessary to be implemented,” he added.
He claimed that despite Malaysia being a multi-racial and religious country, the thinking and behaviour of some politicians in Malaysia are more conservative than those in Middle Eastern countries.
“Many Middle Eastern countries are gradually moving towards moderation. For example, the United Arab Emirates will host Miss World 2023 this year, and there are also luxury casinos in the Middle East.
“So, is Malaysia, in particular, Sarawak, not entitled to be developed?” he said. – May 2, 2023
Main pic credit: Facebook/ Dato’ Seri Tiong King Sing (拿督斯里张庆信）
