| NEWS ARCHIVES |
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| Resorts World at Sentosa Awarded Casino Licence |
| 6 Feb 2010 |
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Resorts World at Sentosa has been awarded its casino licence.
It is the first of Singapore's two integrated resorts to get the go ahead for its casino operations.
Although the opening date of the casino at Resort World has not been announced, preparations are in full swing.
Lunar New Year decorations have already been put up at the lobby of the casino.
Resorts World staff were in the midst of an orientation when MediaCorp news team visited.
Although the doors remain shut, visitors are excited about the prospect the casino may be opening soon.
Some are hoping the casino will be open in time for the Lunar New Year which begins on 14 February.
"I will be the first one to come down because Chinese New Year, Chinese like to gamble so hong bao hong bao everyone wants to come here to bring a hong bao.
"We are all excited. It's a boost for our economy and a tourist attraction. I will definitely come in for the experience although I'm not a casino gambler."
The 6.6 billion Sing dollar integrated resort at Sentosa is opening in phases.
Its hotels started welcoming guests last month.
Many are also waiting for the theme park - Universal Studios Singapore to open.
Some of the staff at the resort have been busy testing out the amusement rides and more.
Andre Teo is Vice President of Entertainment for Resorts World.
"The Theme Park - we are in full swing - getting ready. We have been testing and commissioning the rides. Some of our people have been experiencing this - going from ride to ride to ride - having a very good time. And we have all been eating at restaurants - trying out the food at very good prices."
And while casino staff are busy gearing up for the opening day, Singapore's Police have also started serving the Exclusion Orders to those with a history of crimes related to drugs and illegal moneylending.
So far, about 3,500 people with serious criminal records have been barred from the two casinos when they open.
The latest exclusion orders are on top of what the National Council on Problem Gambling has issued.
Some 28,000 undischarged bankrupts and those on public assistance have also been banned from entering casinos.
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