Indonesia’s Widodo says no online gambling social assistance plan

Jenny Ortiz June 20, 2024

Indonesian President Joko Widodo has denied any plans to provide social assistance to online gambling players. The president’s comments come in response to recent discussions about potentially aiding families affected by online gambling, a proposal that has sparked significant controversy given that online gambling is illegal in Indonesia.

According to a local report, the idea of providing social assistance was first floated by Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, Muhadjir Effendy, during a meeting on June 13, aimed at establishing the Online Gambling Eradication Task Force. The Deputy Chair of the task force later clarified on June 17 that while gamblers should be prosecuted, the proposed assistance was intended for their families.

Widodo’s firm stand against gambling

President Widodo’s recent statements come amidst a broader crackdown on online gambling, which has been linked to several alarming criminal cases across Indonesia. In a video shared on his social media platforms, the president emphasised the importance of prudent money management and urged public figures, religious leaders, and citizens to monitor and report any signs of online gambling.

Public and expert’s take

The proposal has faced sharp criticism from various quarters. The Indonesian Forum for Budget Transparency (FITRA) was quick to condemn the idea, arguing that providing social assistance to the families of online gamblers effectively subsidises the gamblers themselves. Instead, FITRA researcher Gurnadi Ridwan suggested that the government should focus on creating job opportunities to combat poverty.

Director of the Digital Economy at the Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios), Nailul Huda, echoed these sentiments, stating that online gamblers do not deserve social assistance as they contribute to state losses.

Contrary to the prevailing criticisms, Asep Suryana, a sociologist from Jakarta State University, defended the idea of providing social assistance to the families of online gamblers. He argued that online gambling is a psychosocial issue, and those addicted often do not consider the long-term consequences of their actions.

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