In Singapore, gambling comes in many different forms, among which the most popular and well-known are 4D, Toto and the Singapore Big Sweep, not to forget the two casinos located at the Integrated Resorts.
Those might seem to be the major forms of gambling, but however, many would fail to realize that quite a few other options fall into the category of gambling. According to the regulations that govern gambling activities in Singapore, there exist quite a few types of activities that will come under the broad definition of gambling, with just a thin line separating legal from illegal gambling in Singapore. Other than these, online platforms present a variety of betting options for people interested in Best Live Betting Sites.
Though it can be quite engaging to gamble every once in a while, constant gamblers might sometimes fall into gambling addiction, and worse, might find themselves on the other end of the law after unwittingly engaging in illegal gambling activities. Thus, this article will now dig deeper into:
Table of Contents
- What constitutes gambling in Singapore
- When is it legal to gamble in Singapore and what to look out for when indulging occasionally
- Is there a minimum age requirement to gamble legally in Singapore?
- When is gambling illegal in Singapore?
- Tips for gambling legally in Singapore
What Does It Mean to “Gamble” in Singapore?
In Singapore, gambling is broadly defined to encompass three types of activities:
- Betting
- Engaging in gaming activity
- Participating in a lottery
The following explains the breakdown of the differences amongst various categories, citing activities of gambling as examples:
| Gambling Activity | Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Betting | The act of making or accepting a bet, which involves paying or staking money on the outcome of events. | - Betting money when playing mahjong - Betting on horse racing - Betting at casino table games |
| Engaging in Gaming Activity | Playing games that involve some element of chance, where the player can win money or something of value. | - Playing slot machines at country clubs/casinos |
| Participating in a Lottery | Paying money to participate in schemes or competitions for distributing prizes based on chance. | - Buying 4D/TOTO - Participating in lucky draws and raffles |
Does Buying Loot Boxes Constitute Gambling in Singapore?
With the advent of online games, many people have voiced their concerns that these virtual loot boxes and mystery boxes may be a form of gambling.
In such games, players often exchange real-world currency for in-game credits, which can be spent on loot boxes or mystery boxes. Inside these boxes are randomized virtual items, some of which may be rare, powerful, or attractive.
- Does this count as gambling?
Buying loot boxes does not constitute gambling, as the rewards typically have no real-world value. However, if a game allows players to exchange virtual items for real-world money, then purchasing loot boxes may be considered gambling.
When is It Legal to Gamble in Singapore?
In Singapore, there are restrictions against gambling that allow no exception unless the activity is conducted under a license or under exemption, be it physically or online. This reflects the stance taken by the government that while gambling is not welcomed on the island, certain forms are permitted to exist under controlled conditions.
Exempted Gambling Activities
Gambling that is social in nature and physical in nature can still be done legally in contrast to the general prohibition; therefore gambling where all participants are in one physical place and there are no commercial interests involved. To be considered "physical" and "social," the gambling must meet the following conditions:
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Gambling has to be something done in person, in someone's private home. It does not include venues such as hotels, clubs, community centers, cafes, and chalets.
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Social: The people involved must be familiar with one another personally, maybe relatives or close friends.
- The activity must be non-commercial, meaning no one is profiting from it.
- The host should not be receiving any commission or fees from the participants.
- Participants should only be able to win money or prizes, not pay to participate.
Examples of legal social gambling:
- Casual gambling at home with friends or family, such as playing mahjong during Chinese New Year.
Gambling in public places is, by law, illegal. Though family members can gather together to gamble at a funeral in a void deck-a public place-this would still technically be illegal.
- Online social gambling is also illegal in Singapore due to the difficulty of verifying whether the participants know each other personally or if the activity is conducted for personal gain.
