'Gambling means easy, fast money'

Highlighting Jakarta's status as an international city, former Jakarta governor Ali Sadikin has suggested legalizing gambling to cater to the needs of foreigners for after-work activities. The Jakarta Post asked some residents their opinions about the issue.

Martina, 36, works at a private bank in Bogor. She and her husband also live in the municipality:

Gambling should not be tolerated. Maybe it's a way of life for some people, but it only leads to misery.

If we watch television and read the newspapers, we often find stories of husbands beating their wives to release their frustration because they've lost money gambling, or of others stealing to get money to buy lottery tickets, not to mention those who have to live in hunger because they put all their belongings on a betting table.

Does the administration really want to develop the city using hot money, sacrificing the notion of social peace and security?

There are many ways to enlarge city revenues, like dismissing corrupt city officials.

Acang, 43, is a motorcycle taxi driver. He and his large family live in Petamburan, Central Jakarta:

I often win at togel (an illegal lottery), that's why many of my friends who need money to open a business or to get their children into school ask for my help. I usually get 10 percent of the winnings.

Although togel is illegal, it is no secret that the game is widespread. Everybody I know takes part in the game. We might spend Rp 20,000 each day buying tickets if we're sure that the combination of numbers we pick will be drawn.

I know that I should save my money, but if there's a chance of getting money without much effort, then I'll take it. It's hard to earn honest money nowadays, while we have so many needs.

But still, I don't want gambling to be legalized, because it will only mean we have to pay more to buy the taxed tickets.

--The Jakarta Post