SINGAPORE — Preliminary findings from a feedback gathering exercise on the government’s intent to restrict remote gambling activities in Singapore were released in Parliament today (March 6).

Second Home Affairs Minister S Iswaran said most respondents supported the restrictions but there were mixed views on whether a limited form of remote gambling should be permitted.

Remote gambling refers to gambling via the internet or any communication device, such as a smartphone.

Mr Iswaran said some called for a complete ban on such activities while others felt that there was a need for a tightly regulated authorised entity that could divert demand away from illegal and unregulated operators.

The proposal would be somewhat akin to Hong Kong, where a locally-based, not-for-profit operator is allowed to offer a limited range of non-casino style products on online platforms.

The government will take the next few months to further study these issues and the experience of other jurisdictions. Mr Iswaran said.

The ministry conducted the public consultation from November last year to January this year. It received feedback from various stakeholders including industry players, community and religious groups as well as members of the public.

The government had announced in November that comprehensive laws are being considered to restrict remote gambling.

They include blocking access to gambling websites, blocking payments to operators and prohibiting advertisements that promote such activities. CHANNEL NEWSASIA