Indonesia's Digital Crackdown: Over 1.3 Million Online Gambling Items Removed

Ministry Targets Online Gambling, Social Media Challenges Remain.

Jakarta - Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has been aggressively combating online gambling, removing a staggering 1.335 million pieces of related content since October 21st of the previous year.

Minister Meutya Hafid announced the figures on Thursday in Jakarta, highlighting that over 1.2 million items originated from online gambling websites, while the remaining 132,000 were identified on social media platforms.

The Minister explained that dealing with content on websites is generally simpler, as the ministry can directly block access. However, addressing content on social media platforms presents a greater challenge.

The Content Moderation Compliance System (SAMAN) has been implemented to manage negative content on digital platforms. Through SAMAN, the ministry reports complaints or findings about online gambling to the platforms, which then review and block the content if it breaks the rules.

Minister Hafid noted that some digital platforms have been slow to respond. For example, during SAMAN's initial month (March to April), at least 214 complaints about online gambling were registered, but only 198 were addressed.

“Facebook has been recorded as the platform with the highest number of unaddressed complaints, with eight complaints left unresolved,” she added.

Minister Hafid acknowledged and appreciated platforms that have responded and encouraged them to increase collaboration and commitment to end online gambling in Indonesia.