Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar, made a visit to Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) in Jakarta to witness firsthand the impact of online gambling addiction. The hospital has treated over 100 patients suffering from mental health disorders linked to online gambling throughout 2024.
Describing the situation, Muhaimin labeled online gambling as a severe social crisis that threatens the well-being and stability of Indonesian society.
“Online gambling is a social disaster, a disease that disrupts the cycle of community welfare,” he said in a written statement on Friday, November 15.
A Holistic Approach to Combat Addiction
Muhaimin emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the issue, focusing on three main pillars: mitigation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of victims.
The mitigation efforts aim to help victims regain their economic stability, while rehabilitation through psychosocial services is intended to support their mental recovery. Reintegration focuses on helping individuals re-enter society and rebuild healthy, productive lives.
“Some of these patients have even turned to criminal activities due to their gambling addiction. They lose control and require medical intervention through rehabilitation,” Muhaimin added.
The Economic Impact on Low-Income Communities
The minister highlighted that around 80% of online gambling addicts come from low- to middle-income households. This exacerbates social issues, as funds that should be allocated for family necessities are instead being diverted to gambling.
The widespread addiction is making it increasingly challenging to achieve economic empowerment and improve the quality of life for these communities.
Online Gambling Addiction! Hundreds Sends to Hospital for Treatment in Jakarta
During his visit, Muhaimin also reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating extreme poverty, aiming for a 0% poverty rate. One of the key strategies, he noted, involves reducing the public’s engagement in online gambling.
“By curbing online gambling, we can ensure that social aid and household incomes are directed toward more productive uses, ultimately supporting poverty alleviation efforts,” he explained.
Government Coordination to Curb Online Gambling
Muhaimin pledged that the Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment would continue to collaborate with other ministries and agencies to tackle the spread of online gambling in Indonesia.
“All stakeholders must get involved. Through my ministry, we will coordinate with other departments to ensure effective mitigation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of victims,” he concluded.
The government’s multifaceted approach is expected to prevent more people from falling into the trap of online gambling addiction, which not only endangers their future but also exacerbates existing social and economic challenges in the community.
(Raidi/Agung)
