The Indonesian government, in collaboration with various ministries and agencies, is ramping up efforts to eradicate illegal online gambling activities. Bank Indonesia (BI) has emerged as a pivotal player in this campaign, freezing over 7,500 bank accounts linked to online gambling. These decisive actions showcase the central bank’s determination to curb the financial backbone of illegal gambling networks.
BI’s approach involves a strong partnership with payment service providers, including banks and non-banking entities. From freezing thousands of bank accounts to blocking hundreds of thousands of websites, the crackdown is a testament to Indonesia’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens from the harms of online gambling.
Indonesia’s strategy against illegal online gambling
The process of freezing accounts begins with identifying suspicious activities. Once flagged, BI traces these accounts and freezes them, effectively cutting off access to funds and disrupting operations. Account holders found complicit in online gambling face severe repercussions, including legal action and financial restrictions. This serves as both punishment and a deterrent for potential offenders.
During a press conference at the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, Deputy Governor Juda Agung outlined the measures, highlighting the central bank’s dedication to eradicating online gambling across the country.
Agung said, “Payment service providers, both banks and non-banks, must have fraud detection systems in place to identify accounts used for online gambling transactions and other fraud. We will continue to act against bank accounts affiliated with online gambling until online gambling activities are eliminated in the country.”
As of 4 November, the desk has submitted 651 requests to freeze accounts connected to gambling activities. Hafid also noted that her department has successfully blocked over 104,819 gambling-related websites since its launch. Since October 2023, over 380,000 gambling-related websites have been dismantled. This remarkable progress underscores the ministry’s dedication to eradicating online gambling. The revelation that nearly 960,000 students are engaged in online gambling has prompted urgent action. Educational institutions are stepping up to address this alarming trend.
Countrywide campaign
The Ministry of Religious Affairs is playing a crucial role by promoting ethical values and working with religious institutions to combat gambling. This holistic approach seeks to address the root causes of the problem. Online gambling has far-reaching consequences, from financial losses to social disintegration. Families and communities often bear the brunt of these impacts.
As the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, Indonesia views gambling as not just illegal but morally unacceptable. The crackdown aligns with the country’s cultural and religious values. Under President Prabowo Subianto, the government has adopted a more aggressive stance against online gambling. This includes policy reforms and enhanced enforcement strategies.
