Integrated resort on Sentosa need not be an iconic landmark: Sun International
South Africa's gaming operator Sun International thinks the integrated resort on Sentosa need not be an iconic landmark.
That is because it will be catered more for the family.
Sun International's architect Northpoint says the panoramic structure should be at the Marina Bayfront integrated resort instead.
Northpoint has a record of designing entertainment resorts in South Africa.
It is working with Sun on the Sentosa project - with the aim of turning the island into a "must visit" destination.
Sun City in South Africa has been dubbed the "City of Pleasure", drawing repeated visits by tourists from all over the globe.
And Sun International is hoping to work the same magnetic effect on Sentosa Island.
Peter Bacon, CEO, Sun International, said, "I think for the integrated resort on Sentosa, looking at the market segment, there'll definitely be a local market for the facilities, including the gaming component. But, I believe there is an opportunity to target not just the region, but markets which are farther a few. What we have in mind is to use this opportunity to profile Sentosa as a must visit destination internationally."
The concept behind Sun City came from Sol Kerzner - who was then Sun's CEO.
But he has since left the company and is now a luxury hotel and casino magnate.
He is himself bidding for the Singapore integrated resort project - together with developer CapitaLand.
Sun International welcomes the competition.
Mr Bacon said, "The company has been completely transformed over the last 7 or 8 years. We bid successfully in a highly competitive process for 8 new licences - casino licences throughout South Africa...We have developed successfully a number of new resorts/properties as well."
Sun is working with two local companies on its bid, and it aims for a high level of Singaporean participation in the development.
2005-04-12
