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Indonesia Considers Restrictions on Online Games Following School Explosion

Jakarta: Indonesia is contemplating imposing restrictions on online games, such as PUBG, in the wake of a recent explosion at a school inside a mosque that injured nearly 100 individuals. President Prabowo Subianto is deliberating on this measure after a student was linked to the explosion, which occurred during Friday prayers.

According to Anadolu Agency, a senior Indonesian official revealed on Sunday that the president is concerned about the potential negative effects of online games on youth. The explosion took place at North Jakarta's State Senior High School 72 at approximately 12:30 pm (0530GMT) on Friday, affecting both students and teachers.

The Jakarta Globe news reported that the student involved in the incident had allegedly brought a homemade bomb to the school. Investigators discovered a soda can believed to be part of the explosive device, along with an airsoft-style rifle bearing references to infamous mass shooters at the scene.

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the president is advocating for solutions to mitigate the negative impacts of online games. He emphasized the risk of such games influencing young people, using PUBG as an example where players can learn about weapons and potentially normalize violence.

As of 2023, Indonesia boasts over 150 million gamers, based on government data. Prasetyo urged teachers to be vigilant if students exhibit any suspicious behavior. The suspect in the school explosion is currently receiving medical treatment as authorities continue their investigation.