New Indonesian President Determined To End Online Gambling
Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia’s new president, has reiterated that he plans to “eradicate” online gambling. Whilst officially illegal in Indonesia, the underground gambling market generates an annual turnover of tens of billions of dollars. Subianto aims to tackle this issue, citing its impact on the nation’s financial and social wellbeing.
Due to its illegal status, the country faces a massive underground gambling market. Over the past year, illegal online casinos generated an estimated turnover of approximately €34 billion (NZ$61.2 billion).
Make Sure To Read: UK Gaming White Paper Will Influence Australian Reform
Maximum Stake Limits to Lower Financial Risks
The Dutch newspaper Trouw recently shed light on the issue of online gambling in Indonesia. Despite its prohibition, the country faces a thriving illegal gambling market. Over the past year, illegal online casinos reportedly generated around NZ$61.2 billion in revenue.
The newspaper highlighted the severe consequences of illegal online gambling, such as financial debts, divorces, murders, and gambling addictions. A shocking incident in June exemplifies this crisis, when Indonesia was rocked by a brutal murder tied to gambling.
Fadhilatun Nikmah, a police officer, handcuffed her husband, also a policeman, and set him on fire, leading to his death. Investigations revealed her actions stemmed from years of frustration over her husband gambling away his salary.
Make Sure To Read: UK Gambling White Paper Consultations Officially Published
Gambling Levy to Fund Prevention and Treatment
In late October, Indonesia’s new president, Prabowo Subianto, announced during a cabinet meeting his commitment to what he referred to as “eradicate” online gambling. According to Trouw, this initiative is a central focus of Subianto’s administration. Soon after his announcement, Indonesian police arrested fourteen individuals linked to a syndicate operating illegal online gambling platforms.
Amongst those detained were eleven employees of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, who intentionally neglected to restrict the syndicate’s operations, despite being tasked with blocking gambling. Failing to meet their tasks, hundreds of illegal online casinos were able to target players in the country.
Details of the steps Subianto plans to take in the fight against illegal online gambling are yet to be revealed. Last year, Indonesia partnered with telecom providers to block gambling-related messages on platforms such as WhatsApp.
Make Sure To Read: Australian Government’s Gambling Ad Ban Bill Delayed
Online Gambling’s Impact On Indonesia’s Society
In June, Reuters reports that the move was announced by Indonesia’s Communications Minister, Budi Arie Setiadi, who emphasised online gambling’s impact on society. “Online gambling is extremely concerning, it’s sucking the people’s blood dry,” Setiadi stated. He highlighted that the activity undermines family finances and predominantly affects women, describing the situation as “just the tip of the iceberg.” President Joko Widodo echoed these concerns, urging Indonesians to refrain from all forms of gambling and suggesting alternative uses for their money. Prabowo Subianto has been serving as Indonesia’s president since his inauguration on October 20, 2024.
Make Sure To Read: UK to Introduce Maximum Online Pokie Stakes and Gambling Levy in 2025
Online Gambling in Asia
Online gambling regulations in Asia vary widely, with some countries embracing the industry under strict regulations whilst most prohibit the activity. The Philippines stands out as a hub for legal online gambling through its licensing body, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), which oversees both local and offshore gaming operators. Similarly, Cambodia allows online gambling under licensed frameworks, primarily targeting foreign players. Interestingly, gambling destination Macau, known for its land-based casinos, heavily restricts online gambling. Jurisdictions such as India and Vietnam permit online gambling in limited forms or for specific games, often under state or regional regulations.
Make Sure To Read: Half of Young Men in Belgium Gamble at Illegal Online Casinos
