A proposal calling for the closure of gambling operations that have been openly running for long periods in Mon State as if they had official permission was submitted to the Mon State Parliament by U Thant Zaw, a state parliament representative for Kyaikmaraw Township Constituency No. 2.
The proposal was submitted during the fourth day of the Second Regular Session of the Third Mon State Parliament on June 16.
Presenting the proposal, U Thant Zaw said illegal gambling operations were no longer being conducted secretly in wards and villages across townships in Mon State. Instead, they were being openly operated on streets in urban wards and villages as though they were licensed businesses.
He also pointed out that even in Mawlamyine, the capital of Mon State, gambling activities were being organized under the guise of festivals and public events, with certain groups collecting fees from participants.
According to the proposal, although laws prohibiting gambling are already in place, gambling operations continue to be held in wards, villages, and along public roads throughout the state in a festival-like manner. The proposal stated that such activities challenge the rule of law, undermine public security, and threaten peace and stability in local communities.
U Thant Zaw noted that gambling in Mon State has become widely known across the country. Despite frequent criticism and condemnation on social media, gambling activities have not declined and have continued even under the current government, creating a significant challenge for authorities.
He argued that failing to take action against gambling effectively encourages illegal activities and that authorities should not permit any activity that could harm public security and the rule of law.
U Thant Zaw also said gambling operations in Mon State have become increasingly bold and are operating in a manner similar to organized gambling syndicates. He said such operations drain the hard-earned income of local people and are conducted without regard for public welfare.
The proposal further highlighted the social consequences of gambling, including financial losses, business failures, family disputes, and broader social problems. It also warned that gambling-related activities can contribute to theft, robbery, and other crimes.
Despite the hardships experienced by local communities, gambling operators continue to accumulate illegal profits and expand their influence, according to the proposal.
U Thant Zaw also claimed that some gambling groups in Mon State have begun operating in a mafia-like manner similar to illegal gambling syndicates in other countries. He said there have been cases in which individuals who reported or interfered with gambling activities were threatened, intimidated, or harassed by hired thugs.
He stressed that both the parliament and the relevant government authorities have a responsibility to prevent gambling groups from evolving into armed criminal organizations and said gambling activities should not be allowed to continue under any circumstances.
The representative further argued that if authorities fail to prevent or take action against gambling despite existing legal prohibitions, it amounts to a failure to enforce the law.
The proposal was supported by U Tin Yi, a state parliament representative for Bilin Township Constituency No. 2. It will be discussed further at a future parliamentary session.
