Indonesian lawmakers are reviewing a proposal that could require social media companies to financially support gambling addiction rehabilitation programmes. The move comes as the government seeks new funding sources to strengthen rehabilitation services, which remain limited despite growing demand.
The discussion is being led within the People’s Representative Council’s Commission III. Officials have raised concerns about the increasing spread of online gambling content across digital platforms.
Proposal Targets Platforms Linked to Gambling Content Distribution
Commission III members, including lawmaker Gus Abduh, argue that social media companies play a significant role in amplifying gambling-related material. As a result, legislators believe platforms that enable the circulation of gambling content should also contribute to mitigating the harm caused by addiction.
Under the proposed bill, social media companies could be required to provide financial support for the development and operation of rehabilitation centres. In addition, lawmakers are exploring how platform responsibility could be formally linked to the broader public health costs associated with online gambling exposure.
Rehabilitation Infrastructure Remains Insufficient
Government officials have acknowledged that Indonesia’s current rehabilitation capacity is not sufficient to meet rising demand. Limited facilities have placed pressure on authorities attempting to respond to gambling addiction cases. This is particularly the case as online gambling becomes more accessible through mobile and social platforms.
The proposal is being positioned as a potential solution to expand the country’s treatment infrastructure. It would do this by bringing in additional funding streams and widening the range of entities required to contribute.
Influencers and Gambling Promotion Under Increased Scrutiny
Indonesia continues to intensify investigations into influencers and digital networks linked to gambling advertising. This reflects broader enforcement efforts targeting illegal online gambling activity.
The growing focus on online promotion signals that authorities are not only addressing gambling itself. They are also tackling the channels that facilitate gambling exposure and user recruitment.
Shift Toward Digital Accountability and Public Health Support
Lawmakers have framed the initiative as part of a wider effort to strengthen rehabilitation support and reduce the social impact of gambling addiction. By connecting platform accountability with treatment funding, the bill aims to address both the spread of gambling promotion and the shortage of services for affected individuals.
As the proposal advances, Indonesia appears to be moving toward a regulatory model. This model links digital platform responsibility with public health funding and addiction recovery support.
