Gambling declines among residents as awareness campaigns gain ground

This year’s six-month Responsible Gambling Promotion campaign kicked off yesterday, with the Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) reporting a continued decline in the percentage of Macau residents participating in gambling and a marked increase in awareness of responsible gambling.

According to the bureau, Macau conducts a survey every three years to assess residents’ gambling habits and awareness.

The latest data shows that the proportion of residents involved in gambling has decreased from 59.2% in 2007 to 30.1% in 2022.

In contrast, awareness of responsible gambling has risen sharply – from 16.2% in 2009 to 64.9% in 2023.

Authorities also announced that, beginning in 2027, two related studies will be consolidated into one comprehensive survey conducted every five years.

This merged study will assess both gambling activity and residents’ understanding of gambling-related responsibilities across the population.

In the second quarter of this year, the central registration system for gambling disorder cases recorded 94 assistance cases, showing a slight decline from the same period last year.

Additionally, the first half of 2024 saw approximately 1,200 requests for online counseling, primarily from individuals facing gambling-related financial and familial stress.

Speaking at the launch ceremony held at Studio City yesterday, IAS president Wilson Hon reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling.

In his remarks, he recalled the government’s expanded efforts, such as integrating financial literacy programs in schools from kindergarten to high school and providing certification and training for social workers and gaming staff.

He also noted the installation of responsible gambling information kiosks in entertainment venues, 24/7 hotline and online counseling availability, and the enforcement of the self-exclusion system.

Other initiatives include legal restrictions barring individuals under 21 and gaming industry employees from entering casinos during non-working hours, as well as the incorporation of responsible gambling standards into the gaming legislation. Hon also remarked ongoing collaboration with gaming operators and social services to implement the Responsible Gambling Implementation Indicators program.

Among the measures, the self-exclusion system is designed to support individuals struggling with gambling addiction. It encourages voluntary restraint while allowing individuals to work with social workers and counselors to address the root of their gambling problems.