By: Haikal Fathan Akbar)*
Online gambling is increasingly rampant along with the development of technology and the internet that makes it easy for anyone to access it. This phenomenon is not only an individual problem, but also has an impact on society and the country as a whole. The role of the government in eradicating online gambling is very important, considering its negative impacts that can damage morals and the economy.
In addition, online gambling is often associated with illegal activities and cybercrime, which can harm many parties. Therefore, the government has taken firm steps, both through stricter regulations and by increasing supervision of digital platforms that provide online gambling services.
However, the role of society is no less important. Not only relying on government action, society must be more vigilant and wise in using technology. Education about the dangers of online gambling needs to be continuously intensified so that society, especially young people, do not fall into this destructive practice.
A shared awareness to report suspicious online gambling activities can also accelerate the handling of this problem. With the synergy between the government and the community, it is hoped that online gambling can be suppressed and even eradicated completely.
Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, is one of the figures who plays a central role in this struggle. She emphasized the importance of utilizing technology in combating online gambling, especially through increasingly intensive cyber patrols.
By using advanced technology such as artificial intelligence, Komdigi is able to detect and block sites and applications containing gambling content more effectively. As a result, access to millions of online gambling content has been successfully cut off. This step shows that technology is key in facing increasingly complex digital challenges.
Not only that, Komdigi is also active in improving the digital literacy of the community. Digital literacy training that reached 165 thousand participants in 27 provinces throughout 2024 is real evidence of the government’s commitment. In these various trainings, the community is not only taught about the dangers of online gambling, but is also made aware of the legal consequences that can ensnare the perpetrators.
Meutya emphasized that this public education aims to create a smarter and wiser society in using the internet. Thus, digital literacy becomes the main weapon in building community resilience against cyber threats.
However, the government cannot fight alone. Community support is an important element in this eradication effort. Various local communities have shown active participation in raising awareness about the dangers of online gambling. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) volunteers numbering eight thousand people work together with non-governmental organizations to help with digital literacy campaigns.
With this collective spirit, the community is not only involved as beneficiaries, but also as agents of change. Collaboration like this strengthens social solidarity and creates a safer internet environment for all, including children.
Cybersecurity expert Pratama Persadha also provided a very important view. According to him, the threat of online gambling requires a more in-depth multi-layer technological approach. By utilizing technologies such as big data analysis and artificial intelligence, the government can improve the ability to detect and predict illegal activities.
Data analysis allows monitoring of suspicious financial transactions, internet access, and social media interactions. This strategy allows for more effective preventive measures, so that illegal gambling sites can be stopped before they have a wider impact.
In addition, support from the banking sector is also an important part of this effort. PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) is one of the institutions that has taken concrete steps to eradicate online gambling. By implementing a fraud detection system and monitoring suspicious transactions, BSI seeks to protect customers while supporting the eradication of criminal acts of gambling.
The sharia principles held firmly by BSI are in line with their mission to provide sustainable benefits to society. These steps show that the financial sector has a strategic role in creating a healthier digital ecosystem.
Commission I of the House of Representatives also took part in the fight against online gambling. In areas with high case numbers such as West Java, the formation of the Gambling Eradication Working Committee (Panja) is one of the real steps.
Member of Commission I, Ahmad Heryawan, emphasized the importance of cross-sector cooperation to stop online gambling activities. From blocking sites to freezing account numbers involved, all of these steps are aimed at minimizing the negative impacts caused. With full support from various parties, including law enforcement officers, the expected results will be more real.
These strategic steps show that eradicating online gambling is not only the responsibility of the government, but also requires the active role of the community and the private sector. Cross-sector collaboration is the main key to overcoming this challenge.
With a sophisticated technological approach, massive public education, and solid cooperation, the threat of online gambling can be significantly reduced. The public is urged to continue to support this effort by raising awareness and maintaining a healthy digital environment.
In facing the ever-growing digital era, eradicating online gambling is a shared challenge that must be overcome collectively. With the support of all parties, we can create a safer, healthier, and more secure cyberspace free from the threat of online gambling. Let’s work together to safeguard a better future for future generations.
)* Contributor Vimedia Pratama Institute