Singapore: Some 29,000 Singaporeans will be banned from visiting the casino next year when the first integrated resort opens its doors. The first casino at Marina Bay is expected to open in the third quarter of next year. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) will start receiving applications for casino exclusion orders in January. And from January 2009, families may also apply for their members to be excluded.

Singapore is taking huge steps towards helping addicted gamblers. The National Council on Problem Gaming has been partnered with the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) since 2005 in a joint effort to combat problem gaming. They have now planned the implementation of telephone lines which provide immediate access to trained counsellors who can advise the caller on the spot.