Worried your loved one is kan cheong over gambling? You’re not alone. Many Singaporean families struggle when gambling becomes a serious problem. What happens when reason and local casino bans don’t work, and the person finds loopholes like cruises and Batam? Let’s see what can be done.
Gambling’s Rise in Singapore
- Gambling addiction affects many families.
“Hi everyone, I need advice on stopping my father from gambling before he loses everything. He’s already gambled away a lot, and nothing—reasoning, counseling—has worked. We even had to get a court order to ban him from local casinos.”
- Singapore’s casino revenue reached $6 billion in 2024, highlighting the prevalence of gambling.
- Many Singaporeans turn to online platforms or nearby countries like Batam for gambling.
Challenges & Loopholes Faced
- Exclusion orders don’t apply outside Singapore.
“Some strange answers here. Exclusion orders for gambling don’t apply outside Singapore, and you cannot simply take another person’s passport or freeze his accounts even if he is a relative.”
- It’s difficult to legally restrict someone’s travel or access to their own finances.
- Families often feel helpless when their loved ones exploit loopholes to continue gambling.
- The emotional and financial toll on families can be immense.
Actionable Steps & Solutions
- Consult a lawyer to explore legal options.
“You have to consult a lawyer and have the person declared mentally incapable so that you can restrict access to his accounts to a monthly allowance for living expenses.”
- Cut off financial support.
“Cut off all his finances. It will be very painful for him but it is the only way.”
- Gather evidence of irresponsible behavior.
“You go collect evidence of this. Make sure when he is old, he can’t get a court order for maintenance. Prove to the court he is incredibly irresponsible…”
- Focus on protecting your own finances.
“you can’t save someone that is self drowning with both eyes open wide. just make sure his financial loss won’t extend to your financial loss”
- Provide only enough money for basic survival.
“If there’s no need to give allowances then tell him you will only give what is enough to survive next time he runs out of money. If already giving now, give what is just enough to survive”
- Remember, you can’t force someone to stop if they don’t want to. Focus on setting boundaries and protecting yourself. Seek support groups or counseling for yourself and your family.
