It was not only the interested bidders who yesterday purchased the Singapore Government’s Request For Proposal (RFP) tender kits, finally issued after two postponements. Others, such as Merrill Lynch and Kerzner International, paid out ten times as much as the bidders to obtain a copy to study. With attention to detail and the due diligence that could be expected of them, the Singapore Government has produced the ultimate casino development model that is already being described as setting the gold standard for other countries.

At a price of one or ten thousand dollars the RFP kits, at over 800 pages of facts and figures plus two CDs, must be value for money. The Japanese, Thai and other governments are likely to study the RFP as they consider licensing casinos in their own countries. Singapore has had the opportunity to study gaming regulations around the world, choose the best points and tailor them to fit its own requirements. With a strong emphasis on social responsibility, the National Council for Responsible Gambling has already been formed and will become part of the Casino Control Bill.

It is considered likely that most bidders for the Marina Bay licence will await the passing of the Casino Control Bill, at present a draft, before committing their applications. The final terms of the Bill are expected to be approved and become law early next year. Deadline for Marina Bay bids is 29 March 2006 with the tender being awarded around three months later. (E-11.16.05)

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