integrated resort The term ‘integrated resort’ (IR) first came into public use in December 2004 when the Singapore government called for concept proposals to develop two plots of land at Marina Bay and Sentosa. The IRs, targeted for completion in 2009, were to offer amenities such as hotels, restaurants, shopping and convention centres, theatres, museums and theme parks. However, it was the inclusion of Singapore’s first casinos in the IRs which caused great controversy in 2004 and 2005.

The casino proposal had arisen in 1985 but had been rejected by then First Deputy Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong. In 2002, when Singapore faced a recession, the idea resurfaced as a possible means of boosting the economy. Although a number of groups expressed concern about the negative impact of gambling, the government proceeded with the IR plans, seeing them as essential to Singapore’s development.

The IRs are expected to bring substantial economic spin- offs. More than 35,000 jobs are expected to be created, tourist numbers have been forecast to double to 17 million a year, and tourist spending is estimated to grow three- fold, to $18 billion.

To address public concerns about gambling, the government announced that it would put in place several social safeguards. These include implementing a membership scheme for Singapore residents; guidelines on casino advertisements; limiting casino signage within the IRs; self- exclusion programmes; the setting of voluntary loss limits; and guidelines on extending credit.

Las Vegas Sands was awarded the contract for the first IR at Marina Bay.