An Indonesian Minister has flagged money laundering activities associated with online gambling, identified by the country’s Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK).
“These aren’t just gambling wins; they’re cases of money laundering,” Communications and Information Minister Budi Arie Setiadi stated at a recent meeting with the House of Representatives Commission I.
While Budi withheld specific details, Coordinating Minister Hadi Tjahjanto reported that January to March online gambling transactions hit IDR100 trillion ($6.13 billion), while some IDR327 trillion ($20.05 billion) was registered for 2023. Commission member Nurul Arifin questioned the ministry’s effectiveness, noting the economic toll.
In response, Budi reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fighting online gambling, highlighting the broader financial impact on Indonesian families and the nation.
A special inter-ministerial task force, led by President Joko Widodo, was formed to combat this issue. Hadi chairs the team, with Budi leading prevention efforts and National Police chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo overseeing enforcement.
In Indonesia, all forms of gambling are illegal, with harsh penalties under the Criminal Code and Electronic Information and Transactions Law. Participants, organizers, and software distributors face severe prison terms and fines.
