By: Wilam Putra (Anti-Online Gambling Activist)
Indonesia’s government is currently facing a serious challenge in managing social assistance (bansos) programs, which are fundamentally intended to help the poor and vulnerable. The findings from joint efforts between the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK)—revealing that 571,410 social aid recipients’ bank accounts are suspected of being used for online gambling—serve as a loud alarm that cannot be ignored. In the context of social protection, such misuse not only undermines the objectives of social assistance but also threatens the credibility of the entire national welfare program.
The government deserves appreciation for its swift and firm response to this alarming phenomenon. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has reaffirmed his commitment to taking strict action against beneficiaries who misuse aid funds for illegal activities, including online gambling. This commitment underscores the government’s seriousness in ensuring that state funds truly reach rightful recipients and are used as intended.
Over 7.5 million online gambling transactions conducted by aid recipients, amounting to nearly IDR 1 trillion in 2024 alone, are clear evidence that this problem cannot be underestimated. State funds meant to meet the basic needs of poor communities are instead flowing into activities that are not only illegal but also socially and morally destructive.
The firm steps announced by the Ministry of Social Affairs, including the possible removal of recipients from aid lists if proven guilty of misuse, reflect the assertiveness needed to safeguard the integrity of social welfare programs. Additionally, the examination of Family Hope Program (PKH) facilitators shows that oversight of aid distribution channels is also under scrutiny. This indicates the government’s caution in assessing the potential involvement of rogue facilitators in enabling such misuse.
The government’s firm stance has also gained legislative support. Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Sukamta, highlighted the case as a “time bomb” that could derail poverty alleviation efforts if left unaddressed. He noted that this issue goes beyond individual beneficiaries—it reflects weaknesses in the verification and accuracy of the Unified Social Welfare Data (DTKS). Many recipients who are no longer economically eligible continue to receive assistance due to the absence of comprehensive data updates.
Parliament has urged the government to conduct a total evaluation of the social aid management system and combat the online gambling ecosystem systemically. Addressing only the aid recipients is deemed insufficient. A comprehensive approach targeting operators, bookies, and digital platforms facilitating online gambling is necessary. This strategy is critical to cutting off illegal financial flows and preventing further misuse.
Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, Pratikno, added that the government has also prepared clear sanctions, ranging from aid deductions to full termination for those proven to misuse funds. This sends a strong message that the state will not tolerate the misuse of public funds for purposes contrary to social justice principles.
It is crucial to emphasize that social assistance programs have long served as a safety net for millions of Indonesians living in poverty. Amid economic crises, the pandemic, and post-pandemic recovery, social aid plays a vital role in maintaining purchasing power and social stability. Therefore, safeguarding the credibility and precision of these programs is imperative.
The government must also strengthen digital and financial literacy among social aid recipients. In many cases, ignorance and environmental influence are the primary triggers of aid misuse. Beneficiaries need intensive mentoring to understand their rights and responsibilities and manage aid funds wisely. Sustainable empowerment programs will be far more effective than mere distribution of cash assistance without control.
On the other hand, technology must be maximized to build accurate, real-time monitoring systems. The integration of social aid recipients’ ID numbers with financial activity data, as carried out by PPATK, should be continuously developed and standardized in aid management. This will enable early detection of potential misuse while promoting transparency.
In the long term, social aid system reform and online gambling eradication must progress hand in hand. Online gambling has become a real threat to the socio-economic structure of the lower classes. When aid recipients are tempted to gamble using their assistance funds, government intervention in poverty alleviation becomes futile.
The government has demonstrated a clear commitment to prioritizing the interests of the people. However, major challenges lie ahead. Inter-agency collaboration, regulatory strengthening, and public participation are essential elements in preventing aid misuse and reinforcing an inclusive, sustainable social protection system. With consistent commitment and prompt action, the nation can build a social assistance system that is not only well-targeted but also dignified.
