Indonesian President Joko Widodo has announced that the government would not be providing financial assistance to online gambling players.
Widodo’s statement was in response to recent discussions regarding social assistance for families of online gambling players. The proposed plan was controversial due to the illegality of online gambling.
The country’s Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, Muhadjir Effendy, initially suggested the plan during a meeting to establish the Online Gambling Eradication Task Force last week.
The Deputy Chair of the Online Gambling Eradication Task Force clarified on Monday that while prosecution of gamblers is necessary, the proposed social assistance would specifically target their families.
Earlier last week, amid a series of alarming murder cases linked to online gambling throughout Indonesia, President Widodo declared a stringent crackdown on the illicit practice, outlawed in the country.
Widodo, who is set to transfer power to president-elect Prabowo Subianto in October, urged Indonesians to avoid all forms of gambling.
In a video posted on his social media platforms, the president advised against gambling, whether offline or online, emphasizing the importance of prudent money management. He also urged public figures, religious leaders, and the public to monitor and report any indications of online gambling, acknowledging the complexities posed by its cross-border nature.
