Heaptalk, Jakarta — The increasing number of foreign nationals working in Bali has raised concerns for the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf). The Ministry will enforce firm measures against foreigners working illegally in Bali, including deporting those who violate regulations.
“I believe that the action we are taking is effective; if they violate regulations, we will deport them according to the sanctions. Currently, supervision has been carried out,” said Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno on Tuesday (08/06). He also emphasized the need for collaboration between local governments and relevant stakeholders to prevent problematic foreign tourists.
Nia Niscaya, Principal Expert in Tourism and Creative Economy at the Ministry, reported that based on Statistics Indonesia’s data, foreign tourist visits to Bali showed positive growth, reaching 2,911,155 visits, a 23.61% increment compared to the same period in 2023. Australian tourists dominated the visits, followed by tourists from India, China, the United States, and Singapore.
The growth in international tourist arrivals in Indonesia, primarily in Bali, is commendable. However, there are several issues accompanying it, including the prevalence of tourists violating regulations. According to Nia, strict supervision and clear communication of tourism dos and don’ts in Indonesia are necessary. She said, “Looking at the data on the number of foreign tourists being deported, we see it positively.”
Meanwhile, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, Head of Bali Provincial Tourism Department, explained that the local government has formed a Tourism Management Task Force involving all stakeholders to oversee tourism activities, following many reports of foreigners working illegally in Bali. He said, “We are collaborating with all stakeholders, including the provincial government, city/regency governments, immigration authorities, Bali Police, and the Prosecutor’s Office.”
Tjok further stated that his party will take firm and non-violent stance against tourists working illegally in Bali. “We will also implement a humane approach,” Tjok added.
Currently, the local government has disseminated the Bali Governor’s Circular No. 4 of 2023 on New Regulations for Foreign Tourists in Bali. According to Tjok Bagus, this step reflects Acting Governor S. M. Mahendra Jaya’s commitment to addressing illegal work by foreign tourists. The circular aims to encourage tourists to respect Bali’s art, culture, customs, and local wisdom.
“The circular outlines dos and don’ts for foreign tourists. We have disseminated this information through various media in Indonesia, including social media, online media, national, and international outlets. We have also shared it with the Indonesian Embassies abroad, as well as foreign embassies in Jakarta and consulates in Bali,” Tjok concluded.
