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Indonesia does not regulate all forms of “gaming” under one legal category. In Ubud, legal issues may involve prohibited gambling, online gambling content, video-game classification, digital services, or permits for a local business or event.
National law applies in Ubud, which is in Gianyar Regency, Bali. A local business may also need to address licensing through Indonesia’s online licensing system and the relevant Gianyar authorities.
Playing an ordinary video game is not automatically gambling. The legal risk depends on the activity, including whether people stake money or other value on an outcome, and how a game or service is operated or promoted.
Police contact or a search: If police in Gianyar question you, seize devices, or investigate suspected betting at a villa, hotel, or other premises, seek Indonesian criminal-law advice promptly.
Online betting or payments: Operators, promoters, payment intermediaries, and account holders may need advice about allegations involving online gambling content or transactions.
A gaming café or event: A venue hosting video games, tournaments, or prize competitions may need advice on business licensing, event arrangements, and whether the format risks being treated as gambling.
A game or digital service launch: Publishers and operators should check whether Indonesian rules on game classification, electronic systems, or business licensing apply before offering a service locally.
A commercial dispute: A local venue, event organiser, or publisher may need help with unpaid invoices, cancelled events, equipment, licensing terms, or a distribution agreement.
Law No. 7 of 1974 on the Control of Gambling and Government Regulation No. 9 of 1981 on the Implementation of Gambling Control form part of Indonesia’s framework restricting gambling. They are relevant when an activity involves wagering or suspected gambling, rather than simply playing a video game.
Law No. 11 of 2008 on Electronic Information and Transactions, as amended by Law No. 1 of 2024, addresses electronic gambling content. The 2024 amendment changed provisions on prohibited electronic content and related penalties, so advice should consider the amended text and the facts alleged.
Minister of Communication and Informatics Regulation No. 2 of 2024 on Game Classification establishes rules for classifying games. Publishers and providers should check whether the regulation applies to their role and game, and confirm current implementation requirements with the relevant authority.
Ordinary recreational play is not automatically gambling. Legal concerns can arise from betting, prizes, or other features that make the activity resemble wagering, so the specific format matters.
Indonesian law prohibits specified electronic content relating to gambling. Operators, promoters, and others involved may face legal consequences, depending on their conduct and the evidence.
A tournament is not necessarily gambling, but its entry fees, prize structure, and rules should be reviewed. The venue should also check its business licensing and any applicable event requirements with the relevant Gianyar authorities.
Game classification rules may apply to publishers or providers offering games in Indonesia. Applicability depends on the provider’s role and the game, so check the current requirements before launch.
Prompt advice from an Indonesian criminal-law advocate can help you understand the allegation and respond through lawful procedures. Preserve relevant messages and records, and do not delete or alter potential evidence.
Yes. A foreign resident or company can seek advice from an Indonesian advocate on local law and proceedings. Ask about language support and relevant experience with Indonesian criminal, digital, or licensing issues.
There is no single standard fee for this work. Ask for a written engagement proposal showing the fee basis, scope, taxes or expenses, and any separate charges for court appearances or travel.
Initial advice may be available within a few days, depending on urgency and document review. An investigation, permit issue, or court case can take substantially longer and has no guaranteed timeline.
No responsible lawyer can guarantee a particular outcome. A lawyer can assess the evidence, explain possible procedures, and advise on lawful responses and available challenges.
For a suspected crime or police request, obtain criminal-law advice promptly. For a proposed venue or service, first clarify the business activity and licensing position with the relevant licensing authority.
Bring any police notice, contract, licence, event rules, payment records, and relevant messages. A clear timeline of events can help the lawyer identify urgent steps and possible legal issues.
Gianyar Regency Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Office (DPMPTSP): Handles local investment and licensing services. It can direct businesses to the applicable licensing process for activities in Ubud.
Gianyar Resort Police (Polres Gianyar): The local police authority for criminal matters in Gianyar Regency. Contact a lawyer as well if a person is questioned, searched, or asked to provide a statement.
Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs: The national ministry responsible for relevant digital-sector policy, including game-classification rules. Its guidance can help providers identify current requirements.
Identify the issue today: Note whether the matter concerns a police investigation, a business permit, a game launch, an event, or a commercial dispute.
Secure relevant records within one day: Keep notices, contracts, payment records, event rules, and messages in their original form. Do not alter or destroy potential evidence.
Shortlist Indonesian advocates within one to three days: Look for counsel whose work covers criminal law, electronic transactions, game classification, or business licensing, as relevant to the issue.
Check credentials and fit before retaining counsel: Confirm the lawyer’s advocate status, ask about comparable matters, and agree on who will handle communications and any court work.
Request a written scope and fee proposal: Ask what the initial fee covers, what additional work may cost, and whether government charges or travel expenses are separate.
Agree on urgent actions and a communication plan: Confirm who will respond to authorities, what documents are needed, and when the lawyer will provide the next update.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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