Jakarta (ANTARA) – In a resolute effort to combat the growing threat of online gambling, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has announced the Indonesian government’s unwavering commitment to tackling this issue. Key measures include the formation of a dedicated task force and the successful takedown of millions of gambling sites.
“The government has been serious in eradicating and combating online gambling. We have managed to take down over 2.1 million online gambling sites. Moreover, the Online Gambling Eradication Task Force is about to be formed,” Jokowi stated during a press conference on Wednesday, June 12, streamed on his secretariat’s YouTube channel.
Jokowi’s address highlighted the severe consequences of online gambling, citing its role in economic and social turmoil, including cases of bankruptcy, divorce, violence, and even murder. He emphasized the need for a collective societal effort to resist and eliminate this harmful practice.
“Online gambling is a transboundary and transnational organized crime. Individuals must take proactive steps to avoid and resist it, rather than relying solely on government actions,” Jokowi urged.
The president also called on Indonesians to make prudent financial decisions, suggesting that resources be used for savings or business investments rather than gambling, which jeopardizes not just financial security but the future of families and communities.
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“It would be better to save your money or use it as business capital since gambling is not just risking money, not just a fun game with prizes, but it is risking the future of ourselves, of our family, and of our children,” he emphasized.
Jokowi’s appeal extended to religious and community leaders, urging them to play an active role in the fight against online gambling by raising awareness, supporting community members, and reporting any gambling activities to the authorities.
This multi-faceted approach signifies a robust stance from the Indonesian government, emphasizing both enforcement and community involvement to curb the menace of online gambling and safeguard the nation’s social and economic well-being.
