Jakarta – The government continues to intensify efforts to eradicate online gambling which is increasingly rampant in society. This firm step has received widespread support from various parties, including members of the legislature, law enforcement officers, and the general public, who agree that online gambling is a serious threat to the welfare of the nation.
Member of the East Java DPRD, Ahmad Athoillah, expressed his concern about the phenomenon of online gambling which is considered to be damaging the character of the younger generation. He emphasized that the younger generation should focus on productive activities, not get caught up in the illusion of instant wealth offered by online gambling.
“The younger generation who should be productive are instead trapped in false hopes of getting rich quickly through gambling. This is a big problem for the development of the nation’s character,” said Gus Athoillah.
He also called for the need for collaboration to provide positive alternatives for the younger generation. “We must work together to ensure that the younger generation has access to positive activities, such as education and entrepreneurship, so that they are not tempted by the false promises offered by online gambling,” he said.
Acting Director General of Public Communication and Media of the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemkomdigi), Molly Prabawaty, revealed that the government has taken various concrete steps to combat online gambling. Since 2017 to December 2024, 5.4 million online gambling-related content has been successfully blocked.
“All of that, again, is the result of collaboration. Without it, it would be impossible for us to do it alone,” explained Molly.
She emphasized the importance of active community participation in efforts to prevent and eradicate online gambling. “Together, we can protect our families and communities from the dangers of judol. Let’s build a healthier, more productive, and more prosperous society. Online gambling is a scam,” she said.
Molly also reminded the public to look after each other and create a shared awareness of the dangers of online gambling. “Remind each other and protect the environment while creating a shared awareness of the dangers of online gambling,” she added.
The East Kotawaringin Police Chief, AKBP Resky Maulana Zulkarnain, SH, SIK, MH, also supports this step by prioritizing a preventive approach through Bhabinkamtibmas. He said that his party is massively providing education to the public about the dangers of online gambling.
“We urge the public to stay away from all forms of gambling, including online gambling, in order to maintain security and shared welfare,” said Resky.
According to him, online gambling is not only against the law, but also has a negative impact on individuals and families, such as destroying the economy and morals of the perpetrators. “For those who have already done it, stop immediately, because gambling activities will not be profitable,” he added.
The government’s efforts to eradicate online gambling are appreciated by the wider community who see it as a positive step to create a healthier and safer environment. Collaboration between the government, law enforcement officers, and the community is expected to continue to ensure that the younger generation does not fall into the trap of online gambling.
Through firm policies and joint support, Indonesia is moving towards a more productive society free from the threat of online gambling.
