A survey of youths’ experiences of playing arcade-style ‘claw’ machines revealed that 23% of them played almost daily, spending anywhere between 200 and 3,000 baht per session.
The survey, conducted by the Young People Against Gambling Network, involved 700 respondents aged 12–25 and their parents.
The study found that 94% of the respondents had played ‘claw’ or similar games, with 61% specifically having tried ‘claw’ machines, said coordinator of the network Wasinee Sonsaeb during a recent forum.
Wasinee noted that some players spent up to 3,000 baht in a single session.
‘Claw’ machines are most commonly found in shopping malls (53%), specialised arcades (30%) and shabu or barbecue restaurants (10%).
Wasinee said the machines’ appeal comes from the cuteness of the dolls and the high value of prizes, compared with the low cost of play, of about 10 baht per attempt.
One university student told the survey that repeated attempts created a desire to win, often leading to financial loss. Despite playing for over 10 years, she said she has only won a doll once.
The machines remain popular among youth, even though they fall under the Gambling Act of 1935.
Speaking at the same forum, Pol Lt Col Sanyapong Chotithanyapat, deputy superintendent of the Central Investigation Bureau, said ‘claw’ machines require licencing by the Interior Ministry.
Enforcing the regulations is, however, complicated, because the arrest authority rests with provincial governors while the police handle enforcement.
Sornvis Panjamaneechot, president of the Arcade and Vending Machine Business Association, argued that ‘claw’ machines encourage family bonding and creativity through doll design.
With the pertinent laws being unclear, Sornvis said operators want the government to set clearer guidelines, stressing that they have no intention of harming youths and are ready to comply with the law.
Wasinee urged that a dedicated office be assigned to regulate ‘claw’ machines, to protect children and young people from potential gambling-related risks.
