With numerous islands, Indonesia is the fourth largest country in terms of population and termed as the world’s largest archipelago. The country has strict laws against gambling and one might have to face a lot of problems if caught doing so. The government and the religious communities of the country have gone to great lengths to enforce a heavy ban on all kinds of gambling and lottery systems. Even after the strict implementation of the gambling-related laws- there are still some illegal casinos being run in the country’s major cities. These places are even raided often and the people involved can face jail time of 3-5 years. The Indonesian government took strict steps to ban gambling after 2012, where people placed huge bets over the Euro cup, some people were even heard to have sold their houses to try their luck in this game of fortune. This incident seriously affected the economy that year. Also, gambling is forbidden in Islam, the religion followed by the majority of people in the country. Therefore, many religious communities went on to great lengths to make gambling illegal in the country.
Where on the one hand online gambling is illegal in Indonesia, the laws still have some loopholes, one of them being- approach to online gambling websites hosted from within or outside the country. Many foreign gambling platforms accept Indonesian entries whilst, many local online gambling platforms are being operated in the country like- prediksi sgp.
Bali and Jakarta are well-known tourist locations in Indonesia and many tourists are also unaware of the strict laws related to gambling in the country. But there is no leniency for tourists and even foreign tourists can face strict punishments. So, if you’re visiting these places make sure not to indulge in any form of gambling.
Punishment
The results of gambling in Indonesia can be quite severe. In the Aceh province, the punishment for gambling can be public caning for both men and women. This form of punishment is meant to provide a message to the public to ensure such forbidden activities are not enjoyed by the people.
In other areas of the country, one can face 3-5 years imprisonment for being involved in any form of gambling.
Online gambling
Even after so severe punishments for the practice of gambling in Indonesia, people have still found a way to enjoy their favourite pastime through illegal means. One of these ways is- online gambling.
Various online websites provide easy access to the people of Indonesia because the government provides an annual license to almost 8,000 such platforms. Their online-betting platforms let people try their hands over games like- rummy, poker, and bingo, etc. Most of these platforms are not safe and the privacy of one’s confidential information is compromised on such platforms. But if the website is government-licensed the risk is low to some length.
The ministry has taken serious steps to make sure the complete elimination of this practice but still the law has several loopholes that are to be secured in the future. The government has ensured its citizens to take corrective measures required in the field. Gambling is completely illegal in the country and one must abide by the laws to avoid certain consequences.
