Macau Regulator Boss Says Responsible Gambling Is a Duty of Operators

Ng Wai Han, the director of Macau’s Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), said that responsible gambling is essential for fostering the lawful, healthy, and orderly growth of Macau’s gaming industry and is a legal requirement for casino operators.

Ng Speaks at an Official Responsible Gambling Promotion Ceremony

Ng made these comments at the “Responsible Gambling Promotion 2025 Closing Ceremony and Certificate Presentation,” which took place on December 17 at the MGM Cotai ballroom. The event was co-organized by the Social Welfare Bureau, the DICJ, and the University of Macau’s Institute for the Study of Commercial Gaming.

During the ceremony, 15 casinos and other gaming venues recognized by the Responsible Gambling Working Group received awards as “Model Units for Responsible Gambling Implementation.” In addition, certificates were presented to 175 individuals who completed the “Macau Professional Certificate in Gambling Counseling,” the “Macau Responsible Gambling Instructor Certificate Course,” and other related instructor training programs.

As Macau’s economy continues to recover faster than experts initially thought, the gaming sector is entering a phase marked by both opportunities and challenges. In this context, responsible gambling has evolved from being solely about community outreach and public education to becoming a legal obligation for gaming concessionaires under the Gaming Law.

What Plans for Responsible Gambling Does the DICJ Have?

In order to ensure the effective application of relevant legislation, Macau authorities require gaming concessionaires to submit regular reports on their responsible gambling initiatives. Additionally, on-site inspections at casinos to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of these measures are routinely conducted.

Ng noted that authorities maintain strict oversight of the enforcement of casino entry bans while continuously strengthening supervision of all aspects of responsible gambling programs. These measures are designed to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements and to uphold safeguards that mitigate gambling-related risks.

Looking ahead, the government intends to place greater focus on raising public awareness of responsible gambling. This will involve close collaboration with stakeholders and expanding outreach through various channels to enhance public understanding of responsible gambling and promote the prevention of gambling disorders.

About the DICJ

The DICJ, which stands for Direcção de Inspecção e Coordenação de Jogos in Portuguese, is known in English as the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau. It serves as Macau’s regulatory body for the gaming industry, which is arguably the main economic pillar of the city.

It offers guidance and support to the Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region in defining and executing economic policies related to casino games of chance, other forms of gaming, parimutuel betting, and public gaming activities. The DICJ is responsible for drafting and enforcing new standards and regulations, as well as conducting on-site inspections to ensure compliance with these rules.