This week, I had the privilege of attending the Ngopi (Ngobrol Pintar) Bareng Kominfo event on September 11, where I engaged in meaningful discussions with the Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Mr. Budi Arie Setiadi. The event provided an excellent opportunity to address some of the most pressing issues facing Indonesia’s digital landscape, particularly as we navigate the complexities of the modern economy.

One of the significant topics of our conversation was the rising involvement in online gambling, which has become even more prevalent amid the decline in consumer purchasing power. According to data from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), over 168 million online gambling transactions occurred in 2023, amounting to a staggering Rp327 trillion. This alarming figure highlights a growing problem that not only impacts individual finances but also threatens the overall integrity of the digital economy.

In response to this, we discussed the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology and various stakeholders in combatting online gambling. Efforts to strengthen cooperation include reporting suspicious activities and continuously updating regulations to ensure a secure and well-regulated digital environment. These steps are critical to protecting the digital ecosystem from exploitation by bad actors.

By fostering collaboration and enforcing stronger regulations, we aim to protect Indonesia’s fintech sector from the threats posed by online gambling fraud. Maintaining a safe digital environment is essential for promoting healthy economic growth and ensuring that technological advancements benefit all users without being undermined by illicit activities.