Jakarta, IO – Communications and Information Minister Budi Arie Setiyadi revealed that the online gambling growth in Indonesia has shown a worrying trend, with a total turnover of up to Rp327 trillion in 2023.
Budi said he conveyed this data to President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo at a limited cabinet meeting to discuss the eradication of online gambling at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta.
This figure was derived from the calculation made by the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK), per Detikcom, Thu (18/4).
He said Jokowi expressed his concern about those who were ensnared by online gambling addiction, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. In fact, there have been four cases of suicide in Indonesia due to online gambling.
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“This is a serious problem that we have to raise awareness about,” said Budi.
Budi said the government would form a special task force comprising relevant ministries and agencies to eradicate online gambling. (bp)