The Indonesian government is preparing to introduce stricter online gambling regulations, focusing not only on combating illegal gambling activities but also on enhancing the responsibilities of digital platforms, service providers, and related institutions in governance, especially emphasizing the protection of minors from gambling influences.
According to Antara News, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs revealed that the proposed "Online Gambling Eradication Ordinance" will establish a more comprehensive regulatory framework for the digital ecosystem. The new regulations will explicitly require all platforms that directly or indirectly assist gambling activities, including internet service providers, fintech companies, and online platforms, to take on monitoring and prevention responsibilities.
Teguh Arifiyadi, the Director-General of Certification and Electronic Transactions Supervision, stated that internet service providers will be mandated to deploy risk mitigation systems, continuously monitor data flows, and meet government compliance standards. Violations will face stricter penalties, including sanctions against platforms that indirectly support gambling activities.
The ordinance also specifically includes provisions for the protection of minors, in response to growing societal concerns about youth exposure to gambling. Arifiyadi noted that many gambling websites lack age verification mechanisms, which has led to many teenagers being affected.
Furthermore, legislator Rieke Diah Pitaloka has called for the government to impose severe penalties on civil servants and community leaders involved in gambling, emphasizing their significant social influence.
Currently, the draft regulation has entered the final coordination stage with the Ministry of Justice and is expected to be officially issued soon, marking a critical step in Indonesia's efforts to combat online gambling.
