By: Barra Dwi Rajendra )*
The Indonesian government has shown a firm commitment to combating online gambling through a zero tolerance policy. With this policy, it is hoped that the eradication of online gambling can be completely eliminated from Indonesia.
The government continues to aggressively eradicate online gambling in Indonesia. In this regard, the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemkomdigi) has blocked more than 5.5 million online gambling-related content throughout 2024. This step reflects the government’s seriousness in protecting the public from the negative impacts of these illegal activities, which are increasingly disturbing with increasingly sophisticated modus operandi.
Secretary of the Directorate General of Public Communication and Media of the Ministry of Communication and Digital, Mediodecci Lustarini, emphasized that online gambling has a negative impact on various aspects of people’s lives, including physical, psychological, and social. Mediodecci revealed that online gambling activities are not only financially detrimental but also threaten the younger generation, with around 80 thousand children becoming victims. He also highlighted how the algorithms of online gambling platforms are designed to make users addicted, thus reinforcing the importance of parental supervision of children in using the internet.
The high internet penetration in Indonesia exacerbates this situation. Based on digital data as of January 2024, there are 185 million internet users in Indonesia, with an average usage time of 7-8 hours per day. Of that number, 139 million people actively use social media. Popular platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are the main targets of online gambling advertisements, which often appear in disguise. This phenomenon shows that the challenge of eradicating online gambling is not only in the legal aspect, but also involves public education and awareness.
Mediodecci also reminded that the legal and social implications of involvement in online gambling are very serious. State Civil Apparatus (ASN) involved, either as protectors or perpetrators, will be subject to legal sanctions without discrimination. This message is an affirmation that online gambling is an activity that does not provide real benefits to anyone, but only causes losses. Thus, the government appeals to the public to stay away from this activity in order to maintain personal and social integrity.
At the regional level, the commitment to eradicate online gambling has also been echoed by law enforcement officers. The East Java Police Chief, Inspector General Imam Sugianto, emphasized that his party would not hesitate to take action against police personnel involved in this practice. He also encouraged the public to work together to eradicate online gambling. Imam highlighted the importance of preventive efforts through education, especially in educational institutions, so that the younger generation has a clear understanding of the dangers and negative impacts of online gambling.
Concrete steps such as internal cleansing within the police force show the seriousness of the apparatus in enforcing the law. Based on data from the Propam Division of the East Java Regional Police, the number of violations involving police personnel decreased significantly in 2024. This is a positive indicator that internal reform efforts are starting to bear fruit, although challenges still remain.
It is important to note that eradicating online gambling requires not only a legal approach, but also cross-sector collaboration. Religious and traditional leaders, educational institutions, the media, and the community have important roles in creating an environment free from online gambling. Education about the dangers of online gambling must begin early, even at the elementary school level, to build collective awareness that this activity violates legal, religious, and moral norms.
In the context of religion and culture, online gambling is also considered an activity that is contrary to moral and spiritual values. In Islamic teachings, for example, gambling is prohibited because it damages the joints of the economy and social relations. Therefore, religious and community leaders are expected to actively voice the dangers of online gambling and encourage communities to stay away from it.
On the other hand, strict law enforcement must remain a priority. Law enforcement officers need to ensure that there are no loopholes for online gambling perpetrators to operate, both at the individual and organizational levels. International cooperation is also needed considering the large number of online gambling servers operating from abroad. With a comprehensive approach, it is hoped that efforts to eradicate online gambling can have a significant impact in the long term.
The steps taken by the government and law enforcement are a good start, but there is still much work to be done and collaboration is needed. Online gambling is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. With a strong commitment from all parties, Indonesia can create a healthier and safer digital environment for all its citizens.
Ultimately, the success of eradicating online gambling is not only measured by the amount of content successfully blocked or the perpetrators arrested, but also by the level of public awareness to stay away from this activity. With a zero tolerance policy that is consistently implemented, Indonesia has the opportunity to be an example for other countries in facing similar challenges. This is a joint struggle to protect the future of the younger generation and maintain the integrity of the nation.
)* The author is a contributor to Angkasa Media Satu
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