Response:

Singapore has come a long way since its beginning in the 1960s.

In fact, according to MM Lee, it is 'ready to become a top first world country'.

And this in fact is not baseless- the Government has been trying to match the meteoric rise of Singapore with its society's progress.

The other day, it was reported in the news that the government plans to cut down on fines imposed in Singapore, evidently to rid it of its 'nanny state' image.

Another milestone in the developments of Singapore towards a 'top first world country' is the introduction of legalised gambling to its shores, for the very first time since the colonial era of the British.

This is because Singaporeans have apparently enough self control not to spiral downwards into the pitfalls of addictive gambling. With the building of the Integrated Resort, members of Singapore's public will now have access to a casino without having to travel overseas.

In fact, the recent introduction of gambling to Singaporean society even reaches as far as to its youth.

The risks of cos are obvious and plenty- it encourages one to develop a habit of betting and lavish spending with no regard for saving, and in addition could give rise to many gambling addicts in future.

However, again just like Singaporean society, the outcome rests on whether the youth have enough self control.

In many ways, the issue resembles Singapore in its early years: the government still in its infancy, banned gambling out of fear of the negative consequences. However, as it progresses self control comes naturally with development.

Perhaps one day then the youth of Singapore will be allowed to engage in gambling- already they are in some schools as an interest group.

Of course though, the distinction between a card game and gambling is quite thick. While such games stimulate the mind, the placing of bets on its outcome is quite a different thing altogether.

The last word on the issue though, is that youth, one way or another, will eventually come into contact with gambling. In the words of a parent: 'Even if you stop them, they will still continue with it secretly.' Better then, to tackle the issue openly than ignore it and let it fester. Youth gambling is a problem to be managed, not banned.