The ongoing debate surrounding the proposed entertainment complex legislation in Thailand has reached a critical juncture, with a recent NIDA Poll revealing significant public sentiment regarding the inclusion of casinos in the bill. Conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) between April 21 and 23, 2025, the survey sampled 1,310 individuals aged 18 and older from various regions and backgrounds across the country.
According to the poll results, a substantial portion of the population appears indifferent to the proposed entertainment complex, with 45.73% stating they do not consider the casino aspect important at all. In contrast, only 7.56% expressed a greater concern for the casino component over the broader entertainment complex. Additionally, 27.24% indicated equal importance for both aspects, while 19.47% prioritized the entertainment complex itself.
When asked about the likelihood of the bill passing without the inclusion of a casino, 46.18% of respondents believed it would not pass, while 32.67% thought it could. A further 19.01% felt it was impossible to propose the legislation without a casino component, showing a clear divide in public opinion regarding the necessity of gambling establishments within the proposed framework.
The survey also highlighted the impact of political figures on public perception. Chaiwatchan Chidchob, a member of the Phumjai Thai Party and a significant voice against the casino proposal, declared, "There will definitely be no casinos." This statement resonated with 35.80% of respondents, who viewed it as a correct decision. However, 29.08% speculated that it was a strategic move by the Phumjai Thai Party for political bargaining.
Moreover, 27.63% believed Chidchob's stance was a personal opinion unrelated to the party's official position, while 22.44% felt it was merely a response to social pressures. The poll also indicated that 20.38% think the Phumjai Thai Party will ultimately find a way to incorporate casinos into the entertainment complex, reflecting a lingering uncertainty about the party's commitment to its anti-casino stance.
As the situation unfolds, the public's perception of potential conflicts within the Phumjai Thai Party is also noteworthy. About 10.84% of respondents foresee a possible split within the party, while 9.39% believe this could signal a readiness to break ties with the Pheu Thai Party, the leading party in the coalition government. Furthermore, 6.72% expressed concerns that the Phumjai Thai Party might be ousted from the ruling coalition altogether.
In the broader context, the ongoing discussions about the entertainment complex and casino legislation coincide with the government’s push for economic stimulus measures, including the controversial Digital Wallet initiative. This initiative aims to distribute 10,000 Baht in digital funds to Thai citizens aged 16 to 20, approximately 2.7 million individuals, as part of a broader economic recovery strategy.
The Digital Wallet project, which has been a cornerstone of the current administration's policy agenda, is currently in its third phase. The Ministry of Finance is preparing to present the initiative to the Cabinet for approval, with expectations of implementation within the next two quarters. Despite concerns regarding budget allocations and external economic pressures, officials have reassured the public that progress on the Digital Wallet remains on schedule.
During a Cabinet meeting on April 22, Prime Minister Phaothong Thinnawat confirmed that the Digital Wallet project is proceeding as planned, despite earlier worries about potential delays. She stated, "Everything is still the same. We will see what can be improved and how far we can go." Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Finance Julaphan Amornwiwat provided updates on the readiness of financial institutions to support the initiative, noting that systems for digital transactions are being developed and should be operational by the end of the second quarter.
As the government navigates these complex issues, the interplay between public opinion on the entertainment complex legislation and the Digital Wallet initiative will be crucial. The NIDA Poll results indicate a populace that is both hopeful for economic relief through digital means yet skeptical about the implications of expanded gambling in the country.
In summary, the NIDA Poll reflects a significant crossroads for the Phumjai Thai Party and the Pheu Thai Party as they grapple with public sentiment on the entertainment complex and casino legislation. The decisions made in the coming weeks will not only impact the political landscape but also shape the future of Thailand's economic recovery efforts amid ongoing debates about gambling and digital finance.
