written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
21 May 2025
Journalist, Editorial Department
Academician Vidya Ramadhan from STIE Ekuitas has suggested that Indonesia should consider legalizing gambling establishments exclusively for foreign nationals. He proposes the establishment of casinos in special zones, such as Bali or Batam.
According to Ramadhan, a tightly regulated gambling industry could provide a short-term economic boost. He emphasized that access to casinos should be completely prohibited for local residents to protect the population from social risks.
This proposal has gained renewed attention following remarks by parliament member Galih Kartasasmita during a budget discussion. He questioned why the United Arab Emirates allows casinos while Indonesia continues to rely on traditional sources of revenue. Galih pointed out that the issue is economic rather than ideological.
Ramadhan suggested that casinos for foreigners be located in special economic zones, where local laws could take precedence over Indonesia's criminal code.
International relations expert Hikmahanto Juwana supported the idea, stating that state-regulated land-based casinos in limited locations would enable the government to manage gambling revenue streams more effectively. Additionally, the opening of such establishments could help combat the proliferation of illegal online platforms.
Some analysts recalled a historical precedent: in the 1960s, Jakarta Governor Ali Sadikin legalized lotteries and casinos to fund the city's infrastructure during an economic crisis. His policy was viewed not as an endorsement of gambling but as a strategic move towards achieving the country's development goals.
Notably, the governor of Hawaii has also expressed support for the legalization of casinos and online sports betting.
