Raise age limit; educate public on ills of gambling

I agree that having legal online betting channels increases the risks of gambling addiction (“Opening up online betting may spawn new addicts, counsellors warn”; Sept 30).

There are challenges in regulating channels in cyberspace. The safeguards that will be put in place by exempt operators, Singapore Pools and Singapore Turf Club, do not adequately tackle the risk of young adults turning to gambling at an early age.

The rules state that players will be able to open an online betting account if they are 21 years old. I think this should be raised to 30 years old so as to ensure these players are mature enough to make the right decisions.

At the same time, the authorities need to continue to clamp down on illegal online-betting websites and educate the public on the risks involved in gambling. The public should also be encouraged to report instances of illegal gambling activities to the authorities.

Gambling addiction is a social problem that needs to be addressed urgently, especially since there will be more channels available for people to gamble.

The blocking of Internet domains offering betting services is not a long-term solution. Educating people on the social ills of gambling could help deter individuals from making the decision to start.