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Bali Implements New Tourist Regulations to Address Misbehavior
The Indonesian island of Bali, a world-renowned destination for international tourists, has introduced a set of new guidelines to address concerns about inappropriate behavior exhibited by some visitors. Governor Wayan Koster, following his recent re-election, has outlined seven prohibitions for travelers, designed to mitigate friction between the island’s rich culture and environment and certain actions by foreigners.
New Measures Aim to Preserve Balinese Culture and Tourism
These updated regulations are intended to reassure local residents that steps are being taken to manage misconduct from the millions of international visitors who frequent the tropical locale annually. The measures also seek to maintain Bali’s thriving tourism sector, which significantly contributed to the island’s economy, accounting for a substantial portion of its GDP in 2019 and experiencing a robust recovery post-pandemic.
In statements to local media regarding the newly established “guidelines for foreign tourists during their stay in Bali,” Governor Koster explained that these rules reflect “the evolving dynamics observed over the past year and a half.” He emphasized, “This is not merely a suggestion but will be enforced through coordinated oversight involving law enforcement and tourism authorities in Bali. Foreign tourists who misbehave will face immediate and decisive action.”
Instances of Tourist Misconduct Prompted New Rules
Earlier this year, video footage circulated depicting a tourist being transported on a trolley through public streets with his wrists and ankles restrained. Reports indicated that the individual, described as an “intoxicated foreigner,” had allegedly “caused disturbance” at a local establishment, including “assaulting individuals.”
In a separate incident, five Australian tourists were involved in an altercation with security personnel at a beach club in North Kuta. This incident reportedly began after one of the men was ejected for allegedly harassing a female patron. Bali police confirmed that the individual had previously received a warning for unsociable conduct.
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Governor Koster stated that the seven regulations for visitors to Bali are crafted to promote “genuine respect for the customs, traditions, arts, and culture” of the island, as well as “the traditional wisdom of the Balinese people in their ongoing ceremonies and ritualistic processions.”
Seven Key Regulations for Tourists in Bali
Prohibited Activities for Visitors:
- Entering sacred sites is restricted to prayer purposes only and requires wearing traditional Balinese attire.
- Climbing sacred trees or acting disrespectfully in holy places is forbidden.
- Littering or environmental pollution anywhere in Bali is strictly prohibited.
- The use of disposable plastics, including straws and plastic bags, is not permitted.
- Employing abusive language, demonstrating aggressive behavior, or disseminating hate speech online is banned.
- Engaging in employment or operating businesses without proper authorization is against the rules.
- Partaking in unlawful activities, such as trading in illicit drugs, protected wildlife, or cultural artifacts is prohibited.
While the specific consequences for tourists who violate these new regulations remain unspecified, Bali law enforcement has been instructed to closely monitor visitor conduct throughout the peak tourist season. The public is also encouraged to report infractions via the police department’s designated messaging service.