Key Moments:
- Online gambling transactions in Indonesia have totaled IDR 927 trillion (about US$56.5 billion) from 2017 through the first quarter of 2025.
- Roughly 70% of online gamblers earn less than IDR 5 million (US$305) per month; over 603,000 social aid recipients participated until July 2025.
- Government agencies have removed over 7.2 million pieces of online gambling content and blocked suspicious financial transactions.
Escalating Economic and Social Impact
Indonesia’s PPATK has reported that online gambling transactions have amounted to IDR 927 trillion (approximately US$56.5 billion) between 2017 and the first quarter of 2025. Authorities have highlighted the detrimental consequences this has had on the national economy, pointing to significant losses as a large share of funds escape overseas, providing no contribution to local value.
PPATK’s Deputy for Analysis and Examination, Danang Tri Hartono, described online gambling as a “silent killer” of the economy. Officials have drawn attention to the severe economic harm, both domestically and through capital outflows.
The Widening Reach and Social Fallout
Authorities have become increasingly alarmed by the widespread impact of online gambling, which has permeated most segments of society. According to figures from Kemenko Polkam, around 70% of players have monthly incomes below IDR 5 million (about US$305). More than 603,000 recipients of government social aid engaged in online gambling through July 2025, leading to the suspension of their welfare benefits.
Officials emphasize that this issue now threatens not only financial stability but also the well-being of families and wider society. Erika, head of data protection at Kemenko Polkam, stated that “the challenge is way larger than financial losses due to online gambling.”
Robust Measures and Enforcement Efforts
Indonesia has responded by cracking down at multiple levels, methodically targeting illegal domains and hosting providers, implementing joint cyber patrols, and enhancing scrutiny of gambling-related financial transactions. This comprehensive approach adopts the pentahelix model, incorporating coordination across government entities, private sector, academia, civic groups, and the general population.
DANA, a digital wallet provider, has joined the effort by blocking questionable transactions associated with illegal betting.
International Collaboration and Technology Challenges
PPATK has identified the necessity of strengthening global partnerships to combat cross-border payment methods exploited by online gambling operators. The use of extensive domain registrations paired with international e-wallets, QR codes, and cryptocurrency has created complex challenges for law enforcement.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) disclosed that in the first half of 2025, online gambling deposits reached IDR 17 trillion (about US$1.04 billion). The ministry has removed over 7.2 million pieces of related digital content, though the ongoing emergence of new illegal sites remains a persistent obstacle.
Societal Damage and Future Risks
Safriansyah Yanwar Rosyadi, Director of Digital Space Regulation at Komidgi, observed that the negative repercussions of online gambling extend well beyond monetary losses, affecting family finances and jeopardizing the futures of younger generations.
“The destruction of family economies and a compromised future for the younger generations are critical consequences of the rapidly growing world of online gambling,” added Rosyadi.
Coordinated Response and Future Outlook
Indonesia’s integrated approach showcases a strong determination to curb the growth of illegal online gambling, leveraging enforcement actions, cross-sector partnerships, international collaboration, and new technological tools. Authorities stress the necessity for ongoing, collective commitment to safeguard Indonesia’s economic and social fabric from these persistent threats.
| Period | Total Online Gambling Transactions | Online Gambling Deposits (First Half 2025) | Content Removed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 – Q1 2025 | IDR 927 trillion (US$56.5 billion) | IDR 17 trillion (US$1.04 billion) | 7.2 million pieces |
- Author
Daniel Williams
