The Hong Kong Jockey Club is urging the public not to gamble with illegal and offshore bookmakers. In a month-long TV information campaign launched today, the Club reminds the public about the risks associated with credit betting and illegal gambling.
The modes of operation of illegal gambling have undergone drastic changes in recent years. With rapid advancements in information technology, most of the illegal bookmakers have switched their operations online, which makes detection increasingly difficult. There is also evidence that young people are being lured into online illegal gambling traps, often based on credit betting.
The five one-minute TV info-segments, which aim to remind the public to stay alert about illegal gambling will include interviews with Chairman of the Betting and Lotteries Commission Dr Samuel Yung; Chairman of the Ping Wo Fund Dr Yau Wing-kwong; Assistant Professor of the Department of Applied Social Sciences at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Dr Irene Wong Lai-kuen; Director of the Centre for Social Policy Studies at PolyU Dr Chung Kim-wah; and Hong Kong Police Superintendent Dan Ng Wai-hon.
It is vital that the community understands the perils of illegal gambling and takes a multi-pronged approach in combating it. Illegal gambling activities are associated with a range of social problems such as gambling addiction and debts, as well as criminal activities such as loansharking and corruption. Recognising these concerns, the Club has a long-standing commitment to providing socially responsible betting that channels the public's betting demand to the authorised and regulated operator. This not only minimises the potential harm of gambling but also generates substantial returns to the community through tax payments and charitable donations.
To tie in with the World Cup, the Club has recently launched a new series of responsible gambling advertisements in all the Off-Course Betting Branches and has reinforced strict access control to prevent the underaged from entering betting premises or placing bets. Through mobile apps and websites, the Club will also remind its betting account users about the risks and consequences of illegal gambling.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club
Founded in 1884, The Hong Kong Jockey Club is not only one of the world’s leading horse racing organisations, but also Hong Kong’s largest community contributor, donating HK$1.95 billion in 2012/13. In addition, the Club is a major taxpayer, Hong Kong’s single largest by far, generating over HK$17.64 billion in 2012/13 for public funds. The Club pioneers technology applications for sporting and betting entertainment, striving for the highest levels of customer service. As a membership club, it is recognised as one of Asia’s most prestigious. These multifaceted roles make it a well-respected and remarkable organisation, dedicated to its mission of enhancing the quality of life for all Hong Kong people.
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Chairman of the Betting and Lotteries Commission Dr Samuel Yung says a multi-pronged approach must be taken to combat illegal gambling.
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Chairman of the Ping Wo Fund Dr Yau Wing-kwong says many patrons of illegal gambling operators become involved in credit betting. The four treatment centres supported by the Ping Wo Fund provide counselling services to these problem gamblers.
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The Club sponsors community football programmes to nurture young football talent and educate young people not to participate in illegal betting activities.
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The Club has launched a new series of responsible gambling advertisements at its all Off-Course Betting Branches to remind customers of the risks and consequences of placing bets with illegal bookmakers.
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The Club implements strict access controls at its Off-course Betting Branches, preventing anyone under 18 from opening betting accounts, entering betting premises or placing bets.
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