The Government Intensifies the Fight Against Online Gambling, Child Protection Becomes the Focus
Jakarta – The efforts to combat online gambling continue with concrete steps taken by the government and law enforcement agencies. The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemkomdigi) is currently drafting regulations to restrict account ownership on digital platforms for children to prevent them from falling into online gambling.
Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid emphasized that the regulation is not intended to limit, but to protect children.
“The government, through Kemkomdigi, is currently drafting a government regulation related to child protection in the digital space, which includes restrictions on account ownership for children on digital platforms. This regulation aims not to limit but to protect and provide safety for children from risky content,” she stated.
According to data from the Online Gambling Task Force, it is recorded that 440 thousand children aged 10-20 years have been involved in online gambling practices. Even more concerning, two percent of them are children under the age of 10.
“These are the figures recorded by the government and are worrying because they are not just numbers, but the rights of children to a safe digital space,” added Meutya.
In addition to the government, the Aceh Regional Police (Polda) has also shown its commitment to combating gambling practices. The Head of Public Relations of Polda Aceh, Kombes Joko Krisdiyanto, revealed that from January to February 17, 2025, they had handled 55 gambling cases and blocked 405 online gambling sites.
“From January to February 17, Polda Aceh has uncovered 55 gambling cases and blocked 405 gambling websites, with 64 suspects. This is a manifestation of our commitment to eradicating gambling cases,” said Joko.
He also reminded the public not to be tempted by the quick profits offered by online gambling, especially with the approaching Ramadan.
“We remind the public not to get involved in online gambling activities, especially with Ramadan coming. Aside from being illegal, it can also harm the family’s economy and social life,” he stressed.
With the decisive actions of the government and the police, the fight against online gambling continues to progress in order to create a safer digital space and a society free from illegal gambling practices.
