TikTok sensation Gunawan, widely known as ‘Sadbor,’ has found himself in the eye of a legal storm. Once celebrated for his quirky dances and viral catchphrases, Gunawan is now facing allegations that he promoted illegal online gambling through his TikTok live streams. This dramatic turn of events has not only shocked fans but also raised serious concerns about influencer accountability in the digital age.
The Rise of ‘Sadbor’: From Tailor to TikTok Icon
Gunawan’s journey to fame began in the streets of Jakarta, where he worked as a traveling tailor. During the COVID-19 pandemic, like many others, he turned to social media for opportunities. TikTok became his stage. With his signature phrase, “Beras habis, live solusinya” (“Out of rice, live is the solution”), and unique dance routines, Gunawan quickly gained a loyal fanbase. His account, @Sadbor86, attracted thousands of viewers during each live session, turning him into a household name among Indonesian TikTok users.
The Arrest: From Hashtag Hero to Police Custody
However, the sparkle of fame dimmed suddenly when the Sukabumi Police arrested Gunawan in late October 2024. According to authorities, the arrest was based on evidence that pointed to Gunawan allegedly promoting online gambling platforms during his TikTok lives. Police investigations revealed that several gambling websites had sent digital “gifts” to his account. In response, Gunawan reportedly acknowledged and thanked the senders—an action that law enforcement interpreted as promotion.
Transitioning from entertainer to suspect, Gunawan now faces charges under Indonesia’s strict Information and Electronic Transactions Law (UU ITE). If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison and a hefty fine.
Gunawan’s Side of the Story: A Denial Amid Chaos
Following his arrest, Gunawan publicly denied knowingly promoting gambling. He explained that while he received gifts from users, he did not realize they were linked to illegal gambling operations. Furthermore, he claimed that he and his team had attempted to block gambling-related accounts but were overwhelmed by their sheer volume.
He emphasized that his goal was simply to entertain his audience—not to encourage illegal behavior. Many of his supporters have rallied behind him, believing that the situation may be a misunderstanding.
A Surprising Twist: From Suspect to Ambassador?
In a move that surprised the public, Indonesian Police later appointed Gunawan as an “Anti-Online Gambling Ambassador.” The goal? To raise awareness and prevent influencers from unintentionally becoming tools for illegal promotion. While some criticized this decision as contradictory, others praised it as a progressive way to turn controversy into education.
What This Means for Influencers Everywhere
Gunawan’s case highlights an important lesson: social media influence comes with real-world responsibility. As online personalities continue to shape public opinion and behavior, they must be cautious about the brands, users, and platforms they associate with—especially during live interactions.
For TikTok creators and influencers in general, this serves as a wake-up call. Monitoring live chat, understanding sponsorship sources, and complying with national laws are now more crucial than ever.