By: Andi Mahesa
The government has demonstrated its commitment to eradicating online gambling practices. One of the efforts that has shown significant results is the reduction in online gambling transactions, which, according to the latest findings from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK), has seen a dramatic decline. Starting from IDR 21 trillion, online gambling transactions have been reduced to only IDR 4.1 trillion within just nine months. This success highlights the government’s serious approach in addressing an issue that not only harms the economy but also has detrimental social and moral impacts on society.
The Director-General of Digital Space Supervision at the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi), Alexander Sabar, stated that Kemkomdigi has taken firm actions in the fight against online gambling. As of January 21, 2025, more than 5.7 million online gambling contents have been blocked. These efforts include blocking gambling websites, apps involved in illegal activities, and taking preventive actions through digital space monitoring. This success proves that the government’s policies are not just ceremonial but are effective in responding to the growing phenomenon in the online world.
The reduction in online gambling transactions is also a result of intensive law enforcement efforts and public education. Legal expert, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sulistyowati, S.H., M.H., stated that there are four main steps to addressing the issue of online gambling. First, public education about the dangers of online gambling and its negative impacts on individuals and families. Second, stronger law enforcement against the providers and perpetrators of online gambling. Third, rehabilitation for individuals who have fallen into gambling addiction, and fourth, providing alternative productive activities to replace gambling habits.
The rehabilitation mentioned here refers to providing assistance for those already addicted, as well as promoting positive alternatives such as encouraging community involvement in productive and healthy activities.
Public education has certainly been one of the key factors in successfully addressing this issue. The public needs to be made aware of how online gambling can destroy their lives, from economic, social, and even psychological aspects. According to Prof. Sulistyowati, educational institutions play a vital role in building awareness about the dangers of online gambling. Therefore, collaboration between the government and educational institutions is a factor that cannot be overlooked.
Meanwhile, in terms of law enforcement, the government has also become more assertive in dealing with online gambling practices. Cyber police and related agencies continue to coordinate to uncover hidden online gambling networks. One important step taken has been increasing the capacity of online monitoring, including working with international digital platforms to block access to websites that promote online gambling.
From a social perspective, the government’s success has also been widely appreciated by many parties. The Rector of UIN Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi, Prof. Dr. H. Kasful Anwar, M.Pd., for example, expressed his full support for the government’s efforts to eradicate online gambling. He stated that the state’s presence in protecting society is crucial, especially for the younger generation, who are vulnerable to various temptations in the online world.
Furthermore, the government continues to encourage the public to be more active in reporting online gambling-related content. This is part of the government’s effort to create a safer and healthier digital ecosystem. Public participation is necessary because the more reports that come in, the faster the blocking and enforcement processes can be carried out. Therefore, it is essential for all of us to be vigilant and avoid engaging in harmful online gambling practices.
As technology continues to advance, the threat of online gambling will remain. However, with the commitment and hard work of all parties, we can create a healthier and safer digital environment. Thus, the public must continue to support the government’s efforts and play an active role in eradicating online gambling. As a smart and responsible society, we must protect future generations from practices that threaten their futures.
In this digital era, the challenges we face are becoming more complex. Online gambling is not just an entertainment activity, but a serious threat to the morality and integrity of the nation. The government’s success in reducing online gambling transactions is a positive step that deserves appreciation, but this is just the beginning of a larger effort. Let us all, as part of Indonesian society, contribute to the fight against online gambling by not engaging in it and staying alert to its threats. This success can only be realized if we unite and continue to support existing policies to build a better, safer, and more prosperous Indonesia.
The author is a student residing in Jakarta.
