Indonesian Ulema Council Warns Against Gambling in Independence Day Games

Indonesia's top Islamic clerical body, the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), has issued a caution against integrating gambling into the festivities for the nation's 81st Independence Day.

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The need to avoid gambling practices in the implementation of competitions.

Wakil Sekretaris Komisi Fatwa MUI, KH Muiz Ali, stated that while Islamic law permits competitions, the organization of such events must strictly follow Islamic legal principles, specifically prohibiting any elements of gambling. He emphasized that commemorating independence should be an expression of gratitude through strengthening unity, contributing to the nation and religion, and engaging in prayer and remembrance.

According to Kiai Muiz, the various competitions typically held during August are fundamentally permissible in Islam as they offer benefits such as developing agility, discipline, and fostering community cohesion. He referenced classical Islamic scholarship, including Ibnu Qudamah's Al-Mughni, which affirms the general permissibility of competitions, both with and without prizes.

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Indeed, if you are grateful, I will increase [My favor] to you, but if you deny My favor, surely My punishment is severe.

However, Kiai Muiz reiterated the crucial distinction: competitions must not devolve into gambling. He specifically warned organizers against using registration fees collected from participants as the source for prize money. Citing scholarly opinions, he declared such practices to be contrary to Islamic jurisprudence and forbidden.

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Muslims have reached a consensus on the permissibility of competition in general. Competition is of two types: competition without compensation and competition with compensation. As for competition without compensation, it is permissible absolutely without restriction to anything specific, such as competition in running, boats, birds, mules, donkeys, elephants, and javelins. Wrestling and lifting stones to know who is stronger are also permissible.

The council's guidance aims to ensure that national celebrations remain aligned with religious values, promoting healthy competition and community spirit without straying into prohibited activities.

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And if the two contestants give it [the prize money] out together, it is not permissible... and that is forbidden gambling, every game that is uncertain between gain and loss.