Socializing the Dangers of Online Gambling: A Long-Term Investment in Saving the Younger Generation
By: Annisa Syuhada
Amid the rapid development of digital technology, Indonesia faces a serious challenge in the widespread practice of online gambling. This phenomenon not only erodes the foundations of household economies but also poses a real threat to the future of the younger generation. Therefore, preventive measures such as socialization and education about the dangers of online gambling become a highly strategic long-term investment in saving the nation’s future.
One concrete step has been taken by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) as part of the front guard in the national financial system. The Executive Head of Banking Supervision at OJK, Dian Ediana Rae, emphasized that addressing online gambling requires a systemic and collaborative cross-agency approach. These efforts cannot be isolated; it cannot be just Komdigi and OJK alone, but must have support from other parties. OJK has closed accounts suspected of online gambling, but this must be done massively and comprehensively.
OJK has also collaborated with various parties, including local governments and banking institutions, to launch large-scale public campaigns about the dangers of online gambling. These campaigns include direct outreach to communities, students, and the use of social media to reach young people who are vulnerable and often targeted by online gambling. OJK has also initiated intensive meetings with compliance directors from various banks to design a more structured approach to eradicate online gambling practices.
In concrete actions, OJK has requested banking institutions to block around 17,000 accounts suspected of involvement in online gambling activities. This blocking was carried out based on data obtained from the Ministry of Communication and Digital (KemenKomdigi). Banks are requested to close accounts matching with the national identification number (NIK) and conduct enhanced due diligence (further supervision).
OJK’s efforts have received broad support from local governments. The Governor of Central Kalimantan, Agustiar Sabran, issued a strong appeal to all students in his region to avoid online gambling practices. He stressed that the future of students should not be destroyed by illegal activities offering promises of instant profits.
Students and young people are urged to stay away from online gambling because it damages their future. They are encouraged to focus on education and their aspirations and not be easily tempted by the lure of quick money from activities that violate the law and damage morals.
This statement aligns with the national policy launched by President Prabowo Subianto within the broad framework of Asta Cita, one of which is strengthening the nation’s character and protecting young generations from social and digital threats. In this context, eradicating online gambling is not just about law enforcement but also about safeguarding the nation’s future.
In many cases, online gambling does not stand alone. This activity is often connected to other cybercrimes such as money laundering, digital fraud, and even funding other illegal activities. Therefore, the socialization of the dangers of online gambling needs to be intensified not only in schools and universities but also in the general community, places of worship, and workplaces.
The government needs to continue supporting various positive initiatives from law enforcement, OJK, and local governments. Education on digital literacy, the importance of personal financial management, and legal awareness must be part of both formal and non-formal educational curricula. The involvement of community leaders, educators, religious figures, and mass media is crucial to delivering anti-online gambling messages widely and effectively.
One approach that can be taken is involving digital communities such as influencers, content creators, and gamers who have large followings among young people. With creative messaging and easy-to-understand language, socializing the dangers of online gambling can more effectively reach the most vulnerable age groups.
Additionally, it is also important to strengthen early detection systems for suspicious financial activities in the banking and e-commerce sectors. Supervision of unusual digital transactions must be increased with the support of technology based on artificial intelligence and big data analytics, so prevention efforts do not always wait until crimes occur.
Amid the government and related institutions’ vigorous efforts to eradicate online gambling, public participation is crucial. Without collective awareness, it is impossible to eradicate this threat to its roots. Every individual, family, and community has an important role in preventing the spread and adverse impact of online gambling.
Thus, it is hoped that all members of society will together protect the nation’s future by strengthening education and digital literacy, avoiding the temptation of online gambling, and fully supporting government policies to create a clean, healthy, and productive digital space. Do not let the younger generation get trapped in the cycle of illusions of instant wealth that ultimately bring destruction.
*) The author is a Social Activist.
