Indonesia ramps up crackdown on online gambling job scams in Cambodia
Indonesia’s Ministry for the Protection of Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has increased efforts to stop the trafficking of citizens through false overseas job offers, especially in Cambodia’s online gambling sector, which has become closely linked to labour exploitation and organised crime.
Last week, officials prevented a North Sumatra resident, identified by the initials MZ, from leaving for Cambodia to work as an online gambling administrator. The Riau Islands Migrant Worker Service and Protection Centre (BP3MI) revealed that MZ had been promised a monthly salary of Rp10 million (US$ 615) by a recruiter operating illegally.
According to BP3MI head Imam Riyadi, the recruiter—identified as R—is based in Cambodia and was assisted by an accomplice named A in Tanjungpinang. MZ’s travel route included Medan, Batam, and Tanjungpinang, with a planned flight to Phnom Penh via Malaysia.
However, officials intercepted him at SBP Port on 4 June and took him to a BP3MI shelter. Tanjungpinang Police are now questioning both MZ and the suspected local accomplice.
Online gambling jobs tied to organised crime
Authorities warn that such jobs offer little protection, often involving long hours, confiscated passports, and even threats of violence for those who try to leave. Minister Abdul Kadir Karding urged Indonesians, especially job seekers aiming to work abroad, to stay away from offers tied to online gambling.
“Always depart through legal channels to avoid problems and be protected,” he said.
Thousands trapped in Cambodia
Indonesian Ambassador Santo Darmosumarto confirmed that both governments are working together to tackle illegal recruitment and the exploitation of Indonesian workers in Cambodia. Media reports estimate that about 80,000 Indonesians are already employed illegally there due to the absence of a formal labour agreement between the two countries.
The Ministry said it would continue to monitor and prevent such trafficking attempts while supporting efforts to bring affected citizens home safely.
Indonesia cracks down on illegal gambling
Indonesia continues its strict crackdown on illegal gambling, which is banned for both citizens and foreigners. Those caught gambling can face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 25 million rupiah ($1,520). Authorities have linked gambling addiction to rising crime and an increase in high-interest loans. The country’s leading Islamic scholar body considers cockfighting as haram (forbidden).
Even though gambling is illegal in Indonesia, it has surged, especially online. In the first quarter of 2025, more than 1.07 million Indonesians participated in online gambling, according to PPATK. The agency found that 71 percent of these users earned less than IDR 5 million per month (about $315), highlighting concerns about the financial risks faced by lower-income groups.
The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) took down over 1.3 million pieces of digital content linked to gambling and pornography between 20 October 2024 and 8 March 2025. Alexander Sabar, Director General of Digital Space Supervision, credited the Indonesian public for this achievement and their active role in reporting such content through the aduankonten.id portal.
