Regarding the problematic effects of the popular battle royale game, Free Fire, the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Indonesia, Sandiaga Uno, recently gave a statement on it. The Minister conveyed his worries prompted by complaints from the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) and the Indonesian Child Protection Agency (LPAI) regarding how the game affects minors.
Sandiaga Uno used his Instagram to portray a dark side of Free Fire about violence and psychological implications on kids. He experienced an emotional moment in Bogor when his neighbor, a lady, revealed that her eleven-year-old boy was addicted so much that he ruined their family by failing to pay fees and even borrowing cash from his friends just to play.
To mitigate these concerns, the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy is working with KPAI to tackle the issue. Sandiaga Uno mentioned that he was going to include the Ministry of Communication and Information while advising on possible actions that could be taken, such as denying access where required so that children in Indonesia do not fall victim to its harmful effects.
It is necessary to acknowledge the positive outcomes of esports in general, and Free Fire in particular for Indonesia, notwithstanding their unwanted effects. The success of the national esports team at the SEA Games underscores the potential for success and national pride that such games present.
