This year’s recipient of Gaming Operator of the Year, Australia/Asia at the International Gaming Awards (IGA) 2018 is Hong Kong-headquartered Melco Resorts & Entertainment (Nasdaq:MLCO). Developer, owner and operator of integrated casino gaming and entertainment resort facilities, Melco is responsible for operations including City of Dreams Manila, Altira Macau, City of Dreams Macau, Studio City and Mocha Clubs.

Accepting the prestigious award on behalf of Melco at the 11th IGA held in London, United Kingdom, was Akiko Takahashi, Executive Vice President, Chief Officer of Human Resources and Corporate Social Responsibility for the company. Shortlisted among hundreds of gaming operators and casino resorts, Melco was awarded the grand prize, which recognizes the gaming operator for its decisive and consistent domination of the market within the region, according to the press release.

Melco’s properties received accolades from the judging panel for bringing vitality, vision and originality to the gaming sector. Each one of those achievements align closely with Melco’s mission to deliver to tourists and international gamers, world-class, one-of-a-kind integrated resort concepts. Melco has brought to Asia pioneering concepts such as The House of the Dancing Water, what is reportedly the largest water-based stage production in the world performed at City of Dreams, Macau; and the iconic “Golden Reel,” a gondola ride located at Studio City, which reportedly hangs 430 feet in the air.

Chairman and CEO for Melco Resorts & Entertainment, Lawrence Ho, said: “The esteemed award from the IGA is a testament to Melco’s tireless efforts to deliver unrivaled and innovative gaming resort services. The award is especially significant to us for its close alignment to Melco’s mission: To shape the future of gaming and entertainment in Asia and beyond. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the IGA 2018, as Melco looks forward to the opening of Morpheus, at our flagship integrated resort City of Dreams, this year to further elevate gaming and entertainment industry standards and better serve our valued clientele.”