Yogyakarta officials urge digital literacy to combat hoaxes and online gambling

During recent book discussion events organized by the Yogyakarta Special Region Library and Archives Office (DPAD DIY) and the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DIY), officials and experts emphasized the critical need for improved digital literacy to combat misinformation and online gambling.

Budi Waljiman, Vice Chairman of DPRD DIY, noted that while technology has made information more accessible, the modern challenge has shifted from finding information to filtering it. He warned that low reading and digital literacy levels make individuals more susceptible to hoaxes and misleading opinions.

In a separate session regarding the book ‘Menang Sekejap Lost Forever’, experts addressed the rising phenomenon of online gambling in Indonesia. Literacy practitioner Septi Nur Wulan Mulatmi highlighted how digital wallets and low-cost betting options make various demographics, including housewives, vulnerable to gambling addiction. Editor Rio Anggi Fernando added that gambling platforms utilize psychological manipulation to exploit players, who often focus on rare wins while ignoring frequent losses.