Yes, The Viral “Koin Jagat” Craze Is a Real-Life Treasure Hunt—and It’s Causing Bali Trouble

written by Farid

January 21, 2025

The “Koin Jagat” phenomenon, a viral augmented reality game sweeping Indonesia, has sparked significant concern in Denpasar.

The game, which encourages players to search for virtual coins in public spaces that can be exchanged for cash prizes ranging from Rp300.000 to Rp100 million, has led to widespread damage to public facilities.

In Denpasar, areas such as city parks, pedestrian pathways, and automated water dispensers have been vandalized by participants eagerly searching for the hidden coins.

Authorities, including the Denpasar Civil Service Police Unit (Sat Pol PP), have expressed frustration over the reckless behavior of players.

“We respect hobbies or interests people have, but activities that destroy public facilities are unacceptable,” said AA Ngurah Bawa Nendra, the head of Denpasar’s Sat Pol PP. He emphasized that these facilities are funded and maintained using taxpayer money, making their preservation a communal responsibility.

Legal Measures and Preventative Actions

The damage violates Denpasar City Regulation No. 1 of 2015 on public order, with violators potentially facing fines or imprisonment through a minor criminal offense trial.

Authorities have deployed officers to monitor key areas, including Lumintang City Park and Puputan Badung Field, to prevent further incidents.

“If anyone is caught damaging public facilities in the name of this activity, they will face legal consequences,” Bawa Nendra warned.

The Denpasar Environment and Landscaping Agency (DLHK) has reported severe damage, including dislodged pedestrian tiles, trampled gardens, and vandalized automated water dispensers.

DLHK representative Ida Ayu Widhiyanasari voiced her frustration, stating, “We work tirelessly day and night to maintain the city’s cleanliness and aesthetics, only for our efforts to be undone by such irresponsible acts.”

@qiyd13 capek sih tapi seru🤣 #jagatcoinhunt #hartakarundiJkt #hartakarundiSby #hartakarundiBdg #hartakarundiBali #squidgame ♬ suara asli – erzio shop

Indonesian TikTok user documenting their “Koin Jagat” treasure hunt in a public park. (@qiyd via TikTok)

Broader Concerns Across Indonesia

The “Koin Jagat” sensation has drawn attention nationwide, with similar incidents reported in cities like Jakarta and Surabaya.

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has summoned the game’s developer to discuss potential revisions to the app’s mechanics to prevent further harm to public spaces.

“We support innovation, but it must not come at the expense of public order and infrastructure,” Deputy Minister Nezar Patria stated.

Data Privacy Risks Highlighted

In addition to physical damage, the game’s real-time location-sharing feature has raised concerns about user data privacy and security.

Critics argue that continuous tracking of players’ movements could potentially be misused if not properly safeguarded. Authorities have urged the game’s developers to ensure robust data protection measures are in place to address these risks.

A Call for Responsible Participation

Authorities are urging the public to engage in the game responsibly and to consider the broader impact of their actions.

As the trend continues to gain traction, the balance between entertainment and civic responsibility remains at the forefront of discussions.

Farid

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