Malaysia’s largest political party says it would shut down the country’s only casino if it gains power in Pahang state, home to the sprawling Resorts World Genting.
The Malaysian Islamic Party (Parti Islam SeMalaysia – PAS) already controls four of Malaysia’s 13 states, and since the 2022 elections, holds 43 of the 222 seats in the federal parliament, the most of any individual party.
PAS’ ultimate goal is to replace Malaysia’s democratic system with Shariah law.
“Anything that can harm society, we must together support its destruction,” said Andansura Rabu, PAS’ deputy commissioner for Pahang, at the party’s annual gathering over the weekend, as reported by The Straits Times. “This isn’t a matter of religion, it’s a social issue.”
“Gambling is harmful, so we have to close it,” he added. “But it must be in accordance with the laws and Constitution.
Malaysia is an ethnically diverse country with a complex political system consisting of a federal constitutional elective monarchy comprising 13 states and three federal territories.
PAS’ electoral base is centered around the conservative northeastern and northwestern rural and coastal areas of Peninsula Malaysia, which is the lower half of the country’s western peninsula. Peninsula Malaysia contains 11 of the 13 states and includes the federal capital, Kuala Lumpur.
Pahang is at the center of Peninsula Malaysia. It has a large Muslim majority of around 75%, but it grants residents freedom to follow other religions. Pahang’s Muslim residents are subject to Shariah law in matters of family law and religious observances.
Genting Highlands, a hilltop location on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali in the Titiwangsa Mountains, is situated at the southwest tip of Pahang. It was chosen as a resort destination for its proximity to Kuala Lumpur, which is an hour’s drive away.
However, even if PAS were to win control of Pahang in the next general election, which must be held before 2028, it wouldn’t necessarily be able to shutter the casino at Resorts World. That’s because casino and gaming permits are decided upon by the federal government.
Genting shares plunged in the aftermath of the 2022 election when PAS shocked Malaysia’s establishment by winning the most seats, a political phenomenon known as “the Green Wave” for the party’s colors.
The stock recovered when investors realized that few of Malaysia’s mainstream parties were prepared to work with PAS to form a coalition government. Instead, a majority was formed by a coalition of current Prime Minister Anwar bin Ibrahim’s People’s Justice Party, the Chinese-dominant Democratic Action Party, and several additional regional parties.
Resorts World Genting is a vast entertainment complex that contributes more than US$1 billion annually to Malaysia’s economy.
