Citizens and non-government organisations in Palau are circulating a petition persuading government leaders not to allow casinos in the country.
The Chief of staff to the president of Palau, Isaac Soaladaob says congress is in the process of discussing legislation on the establishment of casinos in Palau.
Mr Soaladaob says the idea has been suggested by a few members of society who believe casinos will generate revenue for the nation.
He says the government is aware of the petition and says the opponents including women's groups and churches are taking the issue very seriously.
"They say that Palau is not ready. They're worried that it may cause some social problems including crime, to support themselves. But this is still debatable you know."
Isaac Soaladaob say the petition has not been received and added that once the bill is approved, it will be forwarded to the office of the president for authorisation.
