Turf Club to apply to be authorised operator

With exceptions allowed under proposed laws to curb remote gambling, the Singapore Turf Club said yesterday that it would apply to be an authorised operator of such gambling services. Singapore Pools said it was premature to comment on its plans, with its spokesperson saying it would first study the legislation.

At present, Singapore Pools’ account members may place lottery and sports bets through the phone, while the Singapore Turf Club, which offers betting on horse races, allows registered customers to place wagers via the phone or smart devices.

When asked, neither operator indicated how popular their remote gambling offerings were with punters.

The Remote Gambling Bill introduced in Parliament yesterday provides for a tightly controlled exemption regime, said the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Authorised remote gambling operators, called exempt operators, will be subject to strict operating conditions that cover social safeguards, responsible gaming, gaming integrity as well as law and order.

They must first meet certain criteria: Be not-for-profit entities that are based in Singapore, contribute funds for social or charitable purposes, and have a track record of compliance with local laws and regulations.

Sanctions for flouting the rules include letters of censure, fines of up to S$1 million for each instance of non-compliance and suspension or revocation of the certificate of exemption.

After the Government announced its intention to introduce remote gambling laws, some experts have said allowing a small number of remote gambling operators would allow the authorities to manage the market more closely than a blanket ban.

They also suggested restricting the range of remote gambling products and types of bets offered. NEO CHAI CHIN