Both Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Johor state Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi have categorically denied reports suggesting the establishment of a casino in Forest City, refuting the claims made by a Bloomberg report.  

In a recent statement, Ibrahim rejected the idea, emphasizing that there are no plans for a casino licence in the area. 

Responding to inquiries regarding Malaysia’s alleged consideration of a second casino licence for the Forest City development, Anwar stated that discussions with prominent figures such as Vincent Tan and Lim Kok Thay did not involve the topic of a casino licence. 

Meanwhile, Onn Hafiz declared that no casinos will be permitted to open or operate within the state. Onn Hafiz emphasized that the Johor government has never entertained discussions or proposals regarding the establishment of casinos. 

Speculation has arisen regarding the potential economic impact of introducing a casino to the $100 billion (€93.1 billion) Forest City project. While some believe it could inject new life into the development, others highlight Malaysia’s strict regulatory framework concerning gambling as a significant hurdle. 

Amidst ‘s predominantly Muslim population and cultural aversion to gambling, the prospect of concrete agreements regarding a casino licence remains uncertain. Furthermore, the renewal of casino licences every three months, overseen by the finance minister—a position currently held by Anwar—adds another layer of complexity to the situation. 

Since its establishment in 1969, Genting has monopolized Malaysia’s casino industry, operating the only casino in Genting Highlands. With ventures extending to the United States, the United Kingdom, and Singapore, the company holds significant influence in the global gambling market. 

The Forest City development, overseen by developer Country Garden, involves a joint venture in which Malaysia’s King holds over 20 percent stake. This royal involvement adds a unique dimension to discussions surrounding the potential introduction of a casino to the project. 

Upcoming SiGMA event: SiGMA Asia 2024, 3 – 5 June. Find all the details .

Galaxy for luxury accommodations, is set to launch a new 5-star hotel, the Capella Hotel, in mid-2025. It is being described as ‘a serene oasis in the centre of a bustling city”. This addition will further solidify Galaxy, already housing eight renowned hotels, including the Banyan Tree and the Ritz-Carlton.

The upcoming Capella Hotel, officially named Capella at Galaxy Macau, will be a 17-floor architectural marvel showcasing Galaxy’s signature gold exterior. The hotel is designed by the renowned French company Moinard Bētaille, known for their innovative and luxurious designs. The design draws inspiration from tropical greenery and water, aiming to create a serene atmosphere that offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.

The hotel will feature 36 “sky villas” and 57 suites, each promising ultimate comfort and relaxation. The sky villas will each feature an outdoor lounge, infinity pool, karaoke room, personal cocktail bar, and pantry. The suites, on the other hand, will provide opulence with private pools and balconies offering breathtaking city views.

Francis Lui, Vice Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, expressed his excitement about the collaboration with Capella Hotel and Resorts. He aims to deliver unparalleled luxury in 21st-century hospitality, setting a new standard for luxury accommodations.

The hotel will also feature a high-end restaurant by renowned Michelin-starred chef Vicky Cheng. Cheng is known for his innovative French-meets-Chinese cuisine, and his debut at the Capella Hotel is highly anticipated.

In addition to the restaurant, guests can enjoy a whiskey bar by Moinard Bētaille and an exclusive members-only lounge named Pony & Plume, designed by Hong Kong’s Albert Kwan. These amenities further enhance the luxurious experience offered by the Capella Hotel.

The launch of the Capella Hotel marks a significant milestone for Galaxy Macau. It not only expands their portfolio of luxury accommodations but also redefines the standards of luxury and comfort in the hospitality industry. With its serene atmosphere, luxurious amenities, and world-class dining, the Capella Hotel is set to become a premier destination for discerning travellers.

The joint venture entity overseeing the development of Japan’s inaugural integrated resort (IR) in Osaka, known as , has successfully secured a substantial loan agreement with a consortium of banks. The €3.1 billion loan agreement represents a significant step forward for the ambitious project. 

Osaka IR Corporation, a partnership between US-based casino giant MGM Resorts International and local partner ORIX Corporation, will collaborate with MUFG Bank Ltd and Mitsui Banking Corporation on what has been hailed as Japan’s largest co-financing arrangement by a group of banks. Additionally, two companies associated with Hankyu Hanshin Holdings have also committed to investment in the project. 

Under an implementation agreement sanctioned by Japan’s central government, the initial investment in the Osaka IR is projected to reach around JPY1.27 trillion (€7.62 billion). The resort’s anticipated is slated for 2030, marking a transformative milestone for Japan’s gaming and hospitality industry. 

Preparatory land works on the Yumeshima Island site commenced in December, with measures to prevent liquefaction and strengthen the foundation underway. These efforts, costing JPY25.5 billion (€161 million), are expected to continue throughout the upcoming Osaka Expo in 2025, with completion scheduled by April 2027. 

MGM’s commitment extends beyond the integrated resort project, with the company sponsoring the United States Pavilion at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka. Groundbreaking ceremonies for the pavilion were recently held, showcasing MGM’s dedication to fostering international partnerships and cultural exchange. 

Upon completion in 2030, MGM’s Osaka integrated resort is poised to become a premier destination, featuring Japan’s sole legal casino, 2,500 hotel rooms spanning three renowned brands, 730,000 square feet of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) space, and tourism facilities showcasing the vibrant culture and attractions of Osaka and Japan at large. 

Upcoming SiGMA event: SiGMA Asia 2024, 3 – 5 June. Find all the details .

is currently engaged in discussions with Berjaya and Genting Group regarding the possibility of establishing a casino in Forest City, located in Johor, a state located south of the country and known for beaches and rainforest.  

Forest City, often referred to as the nation’s ‘ghost city,’ was initially unveiled in 2006 as part of a 20-year development project funded by a consortium of primarily mainland Chinese real estate developers. 

The massive $100 billion (€93.5 billion) property project, which also involves the nation’s monarch as a shareholder, has garnered attention from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. A recent Bloomberg report said that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held preliminary discussions with Vincent Tan, the founder of Berjaya Corp, and Lim Kok Thay from Genting Group regarding the proposed casino venture. 

Despite the discussions, uncertainties loom over the potential project due to ‘s predominantly Muslim population and cultural aversion to gambling. The Muslim-majority nation’s stance on gambling presents a significant hurdle to the establishment of a casino, raising questions about the feasibility of the proposed venture. 

Notably, the country’s King holds a substantial stake of over 20 percent in the Forest City joint venture, which is overseen by developer Country Garden. Additionally, King Ibrahim has interests in Berjaya Assets Bhd, while his daughter serves as the Chair of Berjaya Corp. King Ibrahim recently ascended to the throne in January, adding complexity to the political landscape surrounding potential developments in Forest City. 

If the discussions lead to concrete agreements, the establishment of a casino in Forest City would mark Malaysia’s second-ever casino licence. However, the project’s realization hinges on navigating cultural sensitivities, regulatory considerations, and political dynamics within the Southeast Asian country. 

Upcoming SiGMA event: SiGMA Asia 2024, 3 – 5 June. Find all the details .