Jakarta – The government continues to strengthen preventive measures to protect the public, especially the younger generation, from the dangers of online gambling and illegal loans (pindar). One of the strategic efforts being intensified is enhancing digital and financial literacy as the main defense against increasingly complex cyber threats.
Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, emphasized that digital literacy is not merely about technology and applications but must begin from the smallest environments—homes and schools. Online gambling and illegal loans are two real threats currently ensnaring many young Indonesians.
“The dangers of online gambling and illegal loans cannot be countered simply through censorship or blocking. Digital literacy must become a culture built from households and educational institutions,” she said.
Meutya explained that the government has provided digital complaint services as a means for the public to report suspicious or harmful activities quickly and easily. According to her, the government’s development of digital infrastructure aims to support education, economy, and the digital creativity of the nation’s youth—not to be exploited by cybercriminals.
“With firm law enforcement, cross-sector synergy, and massive improvement in digital and financial literacy, Indonesia has great hope to overcome this crisis,” Meutya asserted.
In agreement, Moch. Muchlasin, Head of OJK South Sulawesi, stressed the importance of financial literacy amid the rapidly advancing digitalization. He stated that young people must understand the risks and responsibilities as consumers of digital financial services.
“Financial literacy is no longer optional but an urgent need in the digital era. Young people need to be agents of financial literacy who can spread understanding and insight within their communities,” said Muchlasin.
He added that without adequate understanding, many people—especially youth—fall into the illusion of instant wealth offered by online gambling sites or illegal financial services.
“Therefore, education and financial inclusion must continue to be expanded through collaboration between regulators, educational institutions, communities, and the media,” he added.
Efforts to improve financial literacy are also considered strategic to support the success of national programs to strengthen the digital economic sector and alleviate poverty through technology. With a population that understands financial risks and exercises control over digital consumption, threats such as online gambling can be significantly reduced.
Online gambling is not just a legal violation but also a threat to morality, family resilience, and the nation’s future. With strengthened financial literacy, everyone is expected to play an active role in creating a healthy and productive digital space.
