Government Grapples with Rising Online Gambling Addiction in Indonesia

Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Hadi Tjahjanto has revealed a concerning trend: an estimated 3.2 million Indonesians are ensnared in the grips of online gambling addiction. According to data from the Financial Transactions Reporting and Analysis Center (PPATK), a staggering 80% of these gamblers wager amounts less than Rp 100,000.

While individual bets may appear modest, the cumulative impact of illicit gambling activities is staggering, amounting to Rp 327 trillion in 2023 alone. Alarmingly, the PPATK anticipates this figure to skyrocket to 100 trillion rupees in the first quarter of the current year.

The allure of online gambling, particularly through platforms offering slots and other games, has contributed to its rampant popularity. With just a smartphone or computer and internet access, individuals can readily engage in these activities, fueling addiction rates.

In response to this crisis, the Indonesian government is taking decisive action. Plans are underway to establish a dedicated task force aimed at eradicating online gambling, reaffirming its status as an illegal form of entertainment in the country. By tackling the root causes and curbing the proliferation of online gambling, authorities aim to safeguard citizens from falling prey to addiction and protect the social fabric of Indonesia.