Radin Mas MP Melvin Yong, who sits on the government parliamentary committee for social and family development, said that gambling addiction is increasingly driven by the proliferation of illegal online platforms, which let users bet on almost anything.
“We must therefore stay ahead of these evolving tactics and strengthen efforts to disrupt how such operators attract and hook users, especially our youths and the elderly,” he told CNA.
Parents have also shared with him concerns about the online content their children are exposed to.
“Much of it is international, where gambling is often normalised, and influencers are sometimes paid to promote betting platforms and gambling culture,” he said.
Mr Yong added that more can be done with social media firms to address this, through stricter enforcement on gambling ads, proactive removal of influencer promotions, tighter age controls, clearer labelling of paid content and stronger public education.
SPOTTING THE SIGNS
Dr Chow said that those with a history of trauma, neglect, abuse or chronic emotional distress may be at higher risk of gambling addiction, as it can serve as a temporary escape from anxiety, low mood or stress.
Experts said that family and friends should look out for the signs of gambling addiction, as they are the closest to the addicts and the first line of defence.
“Loved ones can identify a downward spiral into gambling by watching for unexplained financial secrecy, mounting debt, defensive behaviour regarding money or their whereabouts and sudden isolation from activities,” said We Care Community Services senior counsellor Yvonne Yuen.
