KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has again said “no” to the idea of another casino in the country, as Malaysia is focused on digital transformation.
“(There is) no need for a second casino (licence) in the country.
“Affirmative no! Malaysia does not have to venture into the (second) casino business.
“We are focusing on digital transformation, energy transition (and) artificial intelligence (AI) – and we believe these are (among the industries that) adequate to push the country forward,” he was quoted as saying by Bernama today.
Speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) 2024 in Doha today, Anwar said Malaysia is currently focusing on digital transformation, energy transition as well as AI sectors.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said these are the sectors, among others, adequate to push future growth.
He was asked whether Malaysia is considering allowing a second casino (licence) under the Madani government during a plenary session at QEF.
Anwar had repeatedly denied reports about the possibility of issuing a second casino licence in Forest City, Johor.
Malaysia has granted only one casino licence, which was issued to Genting in 1969. The group also has casino operations in the UK, US, and Singapore.
Meanwhile, he said despite Malaysia’s firm position on the Palestine-Israel issue, it has not impacted businesses and the country continues to attract new investments.
“I think (our position) is very clear. (For example) We are very strong in our relations with China. I do not subscribe to this xenophobia. We have been traditional allies. And most of our investments, in different states, still come in.
“I mean, Germany, of course, the Middle East, even from the United States, by Microsoft, Google, they are all there (in Malaysia) and they are coming aggressively in Malaysia and we welcome them.”
Anwar then highlighted that Malaysia is well-known for semiconductors in the region.
“Part of the reason for Malaysia’s success in the semiconductor industry is the support it receives from the United States.
“We do differ to some of their policies (because) the contradictions are hypocrisy, but overall, they (the United States) are still friends.”
Anwar’s participation at the fourth edition of the QEF is part of his three-day official visit to Qatar, which ends today. – May 14, 2024