Genting, Berjaya Deny Johor Casino Plans, Gov Confirms

Key Takeaway

• Genting Malaysia Bhd. and Berjaya Corp. deny reports of discussions to open a casino in Johor's Forest City, refuting claims of talks with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
• Malaysian government, including PM Anwar Ibrahim and Johor Chief Minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi, confirms no plans for a new casino license in Forest City or Johor.
• Despite rumors, Forest City is designated as a Special Financial Zone to attract foreign investment without plans for a casino development.

Casino Rumors Quashed

Genting Malaysia Bhd. and Berjaya Corp. have both denied involvement in discussions about opening a casino in the Forest City development in Johor, Malaysia. Reports from the New Straits Times and Bloomberg News had suggested that preliminary talks involving key figures such as Genting Group's Lim Kok Thay and Berjaya Corp. founder Vincent Tan with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took place at the Forest City development. However, these claims have been refuted by the companies and individuals involved. Genting Malaysia stated, “Neither the company nor Tan Sri Lim was involved in any such discussions or meetings and the claims made are untrue.” Similarly, Berjaya Corp. clarified that Vincent Tan had not participated in such discussions.

Government's Stance

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Johor Chief Minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi have both stated that there are no plans to issue a casino license in Forest City, or to allow a casino to operate in the state of Johor. Anwar described the Bloomberg report suggesting the Malaysian government was considering a second casino for the country as “a lie” and “not true.” These statements were made amidst rumors and reports that had suggested a potential boost to the Forest City development through the introduction of a casino.

Forest City's Development

Forest City, a significant real estate development located next to Singapore, has been struggling to attract residents, with its value estimated at approximately S$136 billion. In 2023, Anwar announced the designation of Forest City as a Special Financial Zone, aiming to encourage foreign investment and promote economic growth in Iskandar, Malaysia. This move highlights the government's interest in developing the area, albeit without the inclusion of a casino.