France 24 reported that nearly 1 million minors in Indonesia have a habit of online gambling, despite its illegal status in the Muslim-majority country [1]. Authorities say that more than 80,000 players are aged below 10, raising alarm about the extent of the problem among very young children [1].
Online gambling is banned in Indonesia, but many are drawn to it, partly due to the lure of fast money as a way out of poverty, according to France 24's reporting [1]. The social consequences have been severe. In 2024, Indonesia recorded dozens of suicides linked to online gambling addiction, highlighting the deadly impact of the habit [1].
The widespread engagement of minors in illegal online gambling poses serious challenges for authorities trying to enforce the ban. The combination of economic desperation and easy access to gambling platforms online has created a major public health and safety issue.
Efforts to curb the rise in online gambling among children will likely need increased enforcement and social intervention. Indonesia continues to battle the growing number of minors involved in gambling, with the most recent data showing a persistent and troubling trend [1].
