Sharia Economist IPB University: Casino Legalization Threatens Indonesia’s Halal Tourism Image
The discourse on the legalization of casinos in Indonesia has surfaced again. Chairman of the Department of Sharia Economics, Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM) IPB University, Dr Khalifah Muhammad Ali, expressed his concern about the discourse on casino legalization in Indonesia.
“The casino legalization policy is not only economically risky, but also socially and culturally. In the long run, the gambling industry can create dependence on unproductive sectors, increase addiction rates, and criminality,” said Dr Khalifah.
According to him, the existence of casinos risks shifting the strategic role of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which have been the backbone of the national economy. This is contrary to the spirit of people’s economic empowerment that is being intensified by the government.
“Indonesia has been recognized as one of the main destinations for global halal tourism, and this is a strategic position that we should protect. The presence of a casino will actually damage this positive image and weaken the Muslim market’s trust in Indonesian halal products,” he said.
As an alternative solution, Dr Khalifah encouraged the government and society to further develop productive and sustainable sectors. Among these are halal tourism, sharia creative economy such as Muslim fashion, halal cosmetics, and sharia-based financial technology (sharia fintech).
In addition, he also highlighted the importance of encouraging the export of agrosyariah products which have great potential in the global market.
“We believe that an economy built on justice and sharia values will have a positive long-term impact, not only economically but also socially,” he added.
In his message to the younger generation, Dr Khalifah invited students and young entrepreneurs to become innovative halal business actors and focus on real sector development.
“Let’s be innovative halal business actors, build a productive real sector, and leave a speculative economy that actually damages the value and future of the nation,” he concluded. (IAAS/NRA)
