Malaysian operator claims big things in store for Sihanoukville

According to an article in The Cambodia Daily, newly-established Malaysian operator SV International has claimed that it aims to turn the coastal town of Sihanoukville in a “casino city”, after Cambodian ministers gave the go-ahead for its development plans.

A promotional video posted online by the company said that it would aim to offer “24-hour borderless online betting games,” alongside a number of landed casinos and entertainment offerings – which would help to turn Sihanoukville into the “Macau of Southeast Asia.”

In a recent comment to press, SV chief executive Alan Lim said that his company has yet to officially ascertain a casino licence in the country.

“SV International has just started business in Cambodia,” he added. “Now the ongoing developments will be casinos, online casinos, hotels and also pawn shops.”

SV began construction work on a new $16m (E14.5m) hotel in Sihanoukville in April – which is forecast to open by the end of September. Plans have now been amended to allow for gaming at the property.

Meanwhile, Cambodian Ministry of Finance spokesperson Ros Phearun has confirmed that the government approved an initial statement of intent from the Malaysian developer, but said that it had yet to give the nod to any detailed plans.