Government Emphasizes the Importance of Technology and Cross-Sector Collaboration in Tackling Online Gambling
*) By: Andi Mahesa
Recently, the phenomenon of online gambling has become an increasing concern for Indonesian society. Despite the government’s hard efforts to tackle this issue, illegal practices continue to spread, along with rapid technological advancements and the expanding internet access. The existence of online gambling not only harms the country’s economy but also brings significant social impacts. This has triggered a strong response from the government, which is now prioritizing technology-based approaches and cross-sector collaboration to eradicate such practices. This policy has become a crucial step in maintaining the nation’s social and economic stability.
The Minister of Communication and Digital (Komdigi), Meutya Hafid, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening supervision of the digital space to combat online gambling. To address this issue, the government has formed seven Priority Program Desks led directly by President Prabowo in the fields of politics and security. Among these seven desks, two are under the responsibility of Komdigi: the Online Gambling Eradication Desk and the Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection Desk. This step demonstrates the government’s seriousness in handling the issue of online gambling in a structured and coordinated manner.
It is important to understand that online gambling not only harms individuals or families caught in its trap but also has wider impacts on the country’s economy. Moreover, the uncontrolled proliferation of online gambling can also become a fertile ground for cybercrimes, such as fraud and personal data theft. Therefore, ordinary supervision is not enough; a technology-based approach and synergy between various related sectors are required.
In this regard, the government, through Komdigi, is introducing a technology-based approach to combat online gambling. One of the steps being taken is the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and algorithms to detect illegal online gambling websites. With the advancement of technology, the government hopes to monitor the circulation of online gambling sites in real-time and carry out more effective site blocking. Blocking online gambling sites, which were previously undetected or hindered by conventional methods, is now expected to be faster and more targeted.
However, technology alone is not enough. Cross-sector collaboration is also needed to address this issue comprehensively. Komdigi, along with other ministries and institutions, is committed to strengthening collaboration with various related parties, such as the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, the Police, and other agencies involved in law enforcement. Through this collaboration, it is expected that a more integrated strategy can be developed to tackle online gambling, through legal aspects, technological access blocking, and public education.
The President’s Special Advisor on Politics and Security, General (Ret.) Wiranto, welcomed this initiative. According to Wiranto, tackling online gambling must be done with an integrated strategy that covers several key aspects. One of these aspects is the legal framework, which includes stricter law enforcement against online gambling operators. Without clear and firm legal threats, online gambling practices will continue to flourish. Therefore, strict regulations and effective law enforcement are necessary to close the loopholes for online gambling.
In addition, Wiranto also highlighted the importance of blocking access to online gambling websites that are still accessible by the public. This step is crucial because online gambling sites often change domains and are difficult for the government to track. With more structured and effective access blocking, the government can minimize the impact of these illegal practices. Moreover, efforts to increase digital literacy among the public are also a key focus. With greater digital awareness, people will be more cautious when interacting with online platforms, including avoiding unauthorized gambling sites.
These steps indicate that the government has developed a comprehensive strategic plan to address the issue of online gambling. Of course, in its implementation, the challenges are not small. Hard work, synergy, and seriousness from all parties are required to ensure that this policy runs effectively. This is not only the government’s task but also the responsibility of society to actively participate in eradicating online gambling.
By raising awareness, spreading accurate information, and educating the younger generation about the dangers and negative impacts of online gambling, we all contribute to creating a healthier and safer digital space. Everyone must understand that online gambling not only harms individuals but also has the potential to disrupt the social and economic order of the nation.
With solid cooperation between the government, society, and the private sector, as well as the use of appropriate technology, we are confident that these harmful online gambling practices can be eradicated. This is an important step toward ensuring a better future for Indonesia, where the digital space is used for positive purposes that benefit all parties. Let’s work together to create a safe and clean digital environment, free from illegal practices, for the advancement and welfare of the nation.
*) The author is a student living in Jakarta.
