Though the practice has been officially banned since 1996, gambling continues to be a major part of Cambodia’s social and economic fabric.
How to avoid the bad habit of gambling?
In a limited way, gambling can be like any other fun activity. Indeed, some form of betting or daring games has been a part of virtually every citizen of the world. However, gambling can have a very addictive nature. Too much gambling can destroy not only one’s financial security but also impact occupations, relationships, and overall well-being. However, many locals still play Gclub slot games online.
Thus the bad habit of gambling must be kept in check. In an ideal scenario, the practice would be avoided completely, but making such unrealistic goals can backfire, especially for those who have been in the game for a long time. Thus, some strategies can be followed –
- Firstly, one has to ensure discipline in their gaming activity. There should be set times, dates, and money amount that one can use for gambling. Anything over that should not be acceptable.
- Secondly, gambling should only be undertaken with registered, licensed platforms, be they physical or offline. Not only this protects one’s money, but it also ensures that one does not fall into any traps or scams.
- Identify the people and situations that incite gambling. This may be drinking alcohol or going out with a particular group of friends. Limiting these triggers can help reduce the urge to gamble drastically.
- Lastly, it is important to plan and get new hobbies. Gambling provides a great thrill and sense of action, which is what makes it so addictive. Channeling one’s energy into other hobbies can help prevent the sense of boredom and frustration that makes one itch for the card’s table.
With these strategies, even the most addicted players can reduce their desire to gamble.
Should Gambling Be Banned Forever?
Gambling has the potential to be problematic. However, many believe that banning gambling in Asia is not the solution. A ban only makes the activity go underground, which increases the chances of scams and exploitation. Instead, it is argued that greater governmental oversight and professional help for those addicted to gambling is the way to go when dealing with the pitfalls of gambling.
What are the effects of gambling on the Cambodian economy
Cambodia is open to gambling by foreign tourists, and it is one of the most significant money-earners for the country’s economy. The government is estimated to make millions annually from its revenue from casinos, and these casinos, in turn, can rake in collective billions from the influx of gamers from other countries.
There is, but a dark side too. Chinese investment in the country, especially in Sihanoukville, has skyrocketed, and the influx of foreign money and tourists centering around casinos has become a cause of concern. The local population worries about the erasure of Cambodian identity and people in the area, and there are concerns about the use of the upcoming casinos for money laundering and financial crimes.
Thus, the gambling industry is a dual-edged sword for Cambodia. On the one hand, it has the potential to bring in a major economic boost. On the other hand, it can be a detrimental factor for its local population through the bad habit of gambling and the possibility of foreign influence and control. With a new law passed in 2019 to increase governmental control over gambling in Cambodia, it remains to be seen how this booming industry will develop in this Southest-Asian nation and impact its population.