By: Ritomi Hardi )*
The Indonesian government is increasingly showing its seriousness in eradicating online gambling which has become a social and economic threat to society. Various efforts continue to be made to ensure a safer and cleaner digital space from detrimental online gambling practices. One concrete step taken is the launch of a national campaign entitled #JudiPastiRugi, which involves various parties, including the government, technology companies, and the wider community.
Kemkomdigi is the main driving force in this initiative. The Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, emphasized that online gambling has become a national social crisis that requires a quick and comprehensive response. Efforts to block more than one million online gambling sites have been made, but the fight against this cybercrime does not stop there. Meutya emphasized that collaboration between the government, the private sector, and the community is the main key to overcoming the rampant practice of online gambling.
One of the strategic steps taken is the formation of the Judi Pasti Rugi Alliance initiated by GoPay, the Financial Technology business unit of PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk. This alliance has the full support of various large companies such as Telkomsel, Google, and TikTok, and is supported by the government through the Ministry of Communication and Digital. This movement aims to raise public awareness of the dangers of online gambling that can destroy the lives of individuals and families. In addition, the Gambling Alliance is definitely a loss and encourages digital education through various social media platforms to accelerate the eradication of online gambling in Indonesia.
Support from the legislature also strengthens the government’s commitment to the fight against online gambling. Member of Commission I of the DPR from the Golkar Faction, Gavriel Novanto, emphasized that online gambling is as dangerous as drugs because it can be addictive and destroy the household economy. Gavriel appreciated the national campaign #JudiPastiRugi and is committed to supporting policies that tighten regulations on online gambling activities. Gavriel also invited the public not only to stay away from online gambling, but also to actively educate their families and the surrounding environment about its negative impacts.
The commitment to eradicating online gambling is also strengthened by the telecommunications sector. Telkomsel, as one of the largest telecommunications service providers in Indonesia, also participated in the Gambling Alliance is definitely a loss and loss. Telkomsel’s VP of Corporate Communications & Social Responsibility, Saki H. Bramono, emphasized that Telkomsel is committed to protecting customers from cybercrime by strengthening synergy with other technology partners. This step is expected to create a safer and more inclusive digital ecosystem for the people of Indonesia.
In addition to support from various parties, the government also continues to increase legal measures to take firm action against online gambling perpetrators. The police have succeeded in naming 11 suspects as managers of three online gambling sites operating in Indonesia. This step is clear evidence that the government will not remain silent about the increasingly rampant threat of online gambling. With firm legal action, it is hoped that it will provide a deterrent effect on the perpetrators and prevent the development of online gambling networks in the country.
Educational campaigns are an important aspect in efforts to eradicate online gambling. Gojek driver partners are involved as educational agents who have direct interaction with the community. Their role in disseminating information about the negative impacts of online gambling is expected to strengthen public understanding, especially in the family environment and the closest community. In addition, educational campaigns are also carried out through social media with the official account @judipastirugi on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, which provides information and a forum for the public to report online gambling activities.
In addition to the educational and legal enforcement aspects, the government also continues to increase technological capacity in blocking access to online gambling sites. Kemkomdigi noted that in the period from October 20, 2024 to March 8, 2025, more than 1.3 million negative content, including online gambling sites, have been successfully handled. This shows that the government is increasingly proactive in creating a healthy and safe digital ecosystem for the community.
The government also invites the public to play an active role in eradicating online gambling. One way is to report numbers or sites that are indicated as online gambling platforms through the official page www.judipastirugi.com. Public participation in this reporting is very important to help the government and law enforcement officers in taking action against illegal sites that are still operating.
In addition, the impact of online gambling on mental health is also a major concern in this campaign. Many individuals who are addicted to online gambling experience psychological stress serious, including anxiety, depression, and even the desire to commit self-harm. Therefore, the #JudiPastiRugi campaign also collaborates with psychologists and mental health institutions to provide education about the dangers of online gambling addiction and provide support services for those affected.
With these various strategic steps, the government together with all elements of society are determined to continue fighting to eradicate online gambling completely. Collective awareness and real action from all parties are the main keys to creating a digital environment that is safer, healthier, and free from the threat of online gambling.
)* The author is an Anti-Online Gambling Activist
