The unveiling of Papua New Guinea’s inaugural gambling establishment has sparked significant debate.
Although the multi-million dollar endeavor is in its early stages, as a component of the broader and equally disputed Paga Hill project in Port Moresby, it has already garnered strong disapproval. The planned casino, clearly intended to draw in international visitors instead of residents, has become a focal point for anxieties.
Advocates for mental well-being and faith-based organizations are spearheading the opposition to the development. Dr. Uma Ambi, a renowned mental health specialist, cautions about the risks, asserting that “obsessive and unhealthy gambling is a treacherous path to numerous health concerns. The late evenings and sleep deprivation fueled by gaming inevitably affect employment and overall wellness.”
She further warns that “the consuming preoccupation with wagering can result in inattentiveness, despair, and a spectrum of mental health difficulties, both minor and major.”
Nevertheless, Clemens Kanau, the head of the National Gaming Control Board, downplays these worries, contending that the casino’s concentration on foreign travelers lessens the danger to locals. He emphasizes the potential financial advantages and employment opportunities the casino offers, proclaiming, “This will be a substantial stimulus to our economy. The positions it will generate are urgently required in Papua New Guinea, where joblessness is a critical problem.”
Truly anticipated witnessing heightened activity regarding employment prospects, specifically a significant surge in available positions.