Macau Regulator Boss Says Responsible Gambling Is a Duty of Operators
Summary
Ng Wai Han, director of Macau’s Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), emphasised that responsible gambling is not optional — it is a legal duty for casino operators and crucial to the lawful, healthy and orderly development of Macau’s gaming industry.
The comments were made at the Responsible Gambling Promotion 2025 Closing Ceremony on 17 December at MGM Cotai. Fifteen venues were recognised as Model Units for Responsible Gambling Implementation and 175 individuals received professional certificates in gambling counselling and instructor training. The DICJ requires regular reporting from concessionaires, conducts on-site inspections, enforces entry bans and plans to expand public-awareness efforts to prevent gambling disorders.
Key Points
- Ng Wai Han (DICJ) stated responsible gambling is a legal obligation for Macau gaming operators.
- The Responsible Gambling Promotion 2025 closing ceremony took place on 17 December at MGM Cotai.
- Fifteen casinos/venues were awarded as Model Units for Responsible Gambling Implementation.
- 175 people completed professional certification courses in gambling counselling and instructor training.
- DICJ requires concessionaires to submit regular reports and carries out on-site inspections to check compliance and measure effectiveness.
- Authorities maintain strict oversight of casino entry bans and are strengthening supervision of responsible gambling programmes.
- The government will increase public-awareness campaigns and work with stakeholders to prevent gambling disorders.
- The DICJ advises the Chief Executive on gaming policy, drafts regulations and enforces standards across Macau’s gaming sector.
Context and Relevance
Macau’s gaming sector is recovering strongly, which brings fresh regulatory focus. Turning responsible gambling into a statutory obligation signals tougher supervision ahead and higher compliance burdens for concessionaires. The awards and certification push show regulators combining recognition with enforcement: operators are expected to demonstrate both programmes and measurable results.
For operators, suppliers and advisers, this marks a clear shift from voluntary outreach to documented, inspectable obligations — non-compliance could attract regulatory action as Macau tightens oversight.
Why should I read this?
Short version: if you work in or with Macau gaming, this matters. The regulator just made responsible gambling a box you must tick — with reports, inspections and entry-ban enforcement to prove it. Read on to know what will be checked and how the DICJ is pushing training and awareness so you can stay ahead of compliance headaches.
