By Nicholas Yong

SINGAPORE: Taking a five-hour coach ride to Genting Highlands casinos used to be a commonplace activity among Singaporean punters who fancied a few rounds at the betting tables.

With the opening of Singapore's two integrated resorts in the first half of this year, however, the gaming tables have been turned.

Now, it is the Republic's turn to hit the tripper jackpot. Malaysians are coming over by the coachloads to give the new offerings a whirl.

As many as 50 buses from Malaysia roll into Resorts World Sentosa alone on an average weekend, with about 10 to 15 buses on weekdays, says Sebastian Yap, spokesman for the Executive Bus Agencies Association.

Many of the Malaysians are day-trippers from nearby Johor Baru, but some come from as far afield as Penang, a 10-hour bus ride away.

So why are Malaysians trying their luck here?

To find out, I went to Johor Baru one Saturday and came back on a coach full of punters, and also took the coach to Marina Bay Sands on a weekday. I chatted with the other passengers, and then followed my new companions as they sought out Lady Luck at the integrated resorts.

They were a mixed bunch of visitors, ranging from the merely curious to retirees ready and raring to roll that dice.

I also caught up with them at the end of their visit, to find out their verdict. Most thought the integrated resorts were a winner, though some were left wanting more. Dhai, a retiree in her 60s who declined to give her full name, observed: "The service and facilities are very good. There are places to sit if you are tired and there are free refreshments and biscuits. I just wish they served Milo."