World Gaming Magazine

37 WGM #56 2018/03 wgm8.com WGM: Over what period of time have those 30,000 hits been? DF: In the last three to four years. We cannot say that it is low because it is a cumulative effect. For example, people coming to Macau several times are a moving target. We just calculate the effectiveness of kiosks but not so-called TV awareness. Several years ago, the DICJ actually encouraged the casino operators to advertise their responsible gaming apps on their TV channel inside the hotels, so whenever you press the button to switch on the TV you can see all RG app advertising. You can’t check how many people actually read this, but I can say it’s a very high awareness because most guests switch on the TV and it always pops up on the screen. Another thing is that we encourage the casino operators to advertise their app not just on hotel TV show but also their shuttle buses. They show some materials, even at SJM– they show their apps on the back of the chairs and then the people can see it. Of course, if you have time to visit casino floors, there are some electronic displays and from time to time they show some pop-up advertising too. On each slot machine there must be one label to provide the 24-hour helpline. This has been implemented for four years already. WGM: Is there any particular demographic that is more susceptible to problem gambling? DF: Yes. Based on the people who seek help, one-third are gaming industry employees. This is very important because it means if we pass a law to ban gaming employees from entering Macau casinos then one-third of the problem may be solved. WGM: Due to the fact that they are always here, does that mean Macau locals face the biggest danger? DF: Yes 95% are Macau locals. Only 5% are from Hong Kong or mainland China. They still seek help, but unfortunatelywe can’t providea long-termtreatment program for them because of their visa. They can’t live here. When we first started, 80% of the people to seek help were male but now it is closer to 70%. It has decreased gradually. Women are catching up. More and more women seek help today. WGM: What about age group? DF: The average age is 40-something although the latest data is indicating a slightly younger age. WGM: If anyone reading this needs help or would like to find out more, what should they do? DF: They can call our hotline, which is open 24/7 in both Chinese and English, on +853 2823 0101 .