By: Septian Anugrah
The Indonesian government has received widespread praise for its firm and consistent actions in eradicating online gambling, which continues to cause public concern. Inter-agency collaboration has been running smoothly, demonstrating the state’s seriousness in maintaining social order and digital resilience. Far from being a mere slogan, the crackdown on online gambling is now being carried out through a structured, data-driven approach that prioritizes swift legal action.
Under the leadership of General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, the Indonesian National Police (Polri) has taken the lead in enforcement. Through the Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim), hundreds of bank accounts have been blocked, with total transactions amounting to hundreds of billions of rupiah. This success not only highlights the decisiveness of law enforcement but also reflects strong synergy with other agencies, such as the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK). Commissioner General Wahyu Widada, Head of Bareskrim, emphasized that cooperation with PPATK goes beyond data sharing; it also includes leveraging analysts to facilitate the tracking of digital transaction trails linked to online gambling networks.
Enforcement against digital crime perpetrators is being carried out systematically. Thousands of accounts connected to illegal activities have been identified through analysis reports from PPATK and the special economic unit of Bareskrim. Polri’s commitment to continuing this operation without pause is evidence of the state’s active presence in safeguarding the digital space from illegal activities. With recent data showing that transactions worth over IDR 224 billion have been traced, this step marks a significant milestone in upholding legal credibility.
Support for the government’s measures has also come from the legislative branch. Member of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the Golkar Party faction, Soedeson Tandra, expressed appreciation for Polri’s increasingly concrete performance in addressing public anxiety. He sees the establishment of the Online Gambling Eradication Task Force as a strategic breakthrough with tangible impact. Since its formation in late 2024, the task force has handled over a thousand cases and seized significant funds from thousands of accounts across various regions. Such enforcement efforts reinforce optimism that the government will no longer allow the digital space to become a haven for criminal activities.
In addition to targeting illegal financial transactions, Polri’s success in uncovering cross-border criminal operations has also gained attention. In a major case, authorities exposed illegal trafficking of hazardous substances imported through fictitious companies. This reveals the responsiveness of state institutions in anticipating new forms of crime that exploit the loopholes of globalization.
At the regional level, the Musi Banyuasin Regency Government (Muba) has also shown real concern about the dangers of online gambling. Herryandi Sinulingga, Head of the Muba Communications and Information Office, stated that the local government fully supports the national movement against digital gambling. Various initiatives have been undertaken, ranging from public education in schools and communities to the reporting of suspicious content for follow-up. This commitment is not merely reactive but is built upon the understanding that digital literacy is the main key to preventing the public from falling into the trap of digital crime.
Educational efforts in Muba are also strengthened by the firm stance of regional leaders, who consistently raise awareness about the dangers of online gambling during community visits. This approach not only broadens public understanding but also strengthens social resilience in facing the increasingly complex challenges of the digital world. Public participation plays a vital role in the success of these efforts, as reflected in the growing number of reports submitted through official complaint platforms.
At the national level, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs also plays a central role. More than 1.3 million online gambling-related content pieces have been blocked. The use of artificial intelligence technology to track and identify illegal websites and applications has enhanced the government’s oversight capabilities. On another front, restrictions on SIM card ownership have been introduced to prevent identity misuse, forming part of a systematic effort to limit the perpetrators’ movements.
The government is also strengthening its legal framework to reinforce its firm stance against all forms of digital crime. With the enactment of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Child Protection in the Digital Space, the state seeks to shield vulnerable groups from the negative influence of the online world. This policy enhances legal instruments that promote safe and productive internet use.
Synergy among all parties—law enforcement agencies, central and regional governments, and civil society—serves as the foundation for the successful eradication of online gambling. This cross-sectoral commitment makes the effort more than a routine operation—it is a national movement involving all elements of the nation. Simultaneous case handling, access blocking, asset seizure, and public education are integrated into a comprehensive strategy.
From the central government to the regional level, this collective effort impacts not only statistics but also fosters a tangible sense of safety among the public. The Indonesian government is not merely addressing today’s problems, but is also building a system capable of resisting similar threats in the future. In this context, the eradication of online gambling is not just a security agenda but a broader commitment to creating a clean, healthy, and sovereign national digital order.
*) The author is a contributor to the Pertiwi Institute
