Malaysian Islamic Party softens anti-gambling policies

The Malaysian state of Terengganu, governed by the Malaysian Islamic Party, is reportedly mulling a relaxation of its bans on gambling and alcohol in order to attract visits from cruise ships.

The effort is spearheaded by Terengganu Tourism, Culture and Information Technology Executive Council Chairman Ariffin Deraman, who sees cruise ship visits as a potential source of economic advantage. He is said to be in talks with cruise operators like Seabourn Cruise Line, which is owned by the Carnival Corporation.

Terengganu is known as a center for traditional Malay arts and culture. It lay on the east coast of Malaysia, facing the Gulf of Thailand and the Riau Islands.

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