Bali Confirmed Safe For Tourist Vacations As Hundreds Killed In Nationwide Flooding 

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As devastating flooding is recorded throughout Southeast Asia, leaders have confirmed that Bali remains safe for tourists.

Widespread flooding has been recorded across Indonesia, with thousands of people displaced, hundreds killed, and dozens still reported missing. 

Indonesia is recording some of the worst flooding the country has seen in over 25 years. Devastating flash flooding, landslides, and storms have been recorded in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, with more than 300 people confirmed to have been killed.

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has spoken to the media as the third day of the official emergency response operation gets underway.

The Head of the BNPB, Suharyanto, confirmed that the emergency response is focused on searching for and rescuing victims, meeting the basic needs of the tens of thousands of evacuees, opening access to isolated areas, and accelerating the distribution of logistical aid to those in need by both land and air.

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He shared, “BNPB ensures that all emergency response efforts continue to be accelerated through coordination with local governments, relevant ministries and institutions, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and volunteers. Accelerating access openings, further data collection on victims and damage, and meeting the basic needs of affected residents are top priorities in the three provinces.”

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As communities across Indonesia are left devastated by the impact of the floods, leaders in Bali are gathering to discuss how urgent lessons can be learned from this weekend’s disasters and to ensure that the province remains a safe place for both local residents and tourists.  

The Indonesian Recreational Park Business Association (PUTRI) has gathered to discuss how tourism attractions in Bali can improve on safety protocols, especially since Bali itself was hit with record-breaking floods in September. 

The Chairwoman of PUTRI Bali, Inda Trimafo Yudha, noted how tourism must play a role in not only conserving but also rebuilding resilience within the natural environment in Bali. She noted, “Indeed, the will of nature cannot be resisted by even human intelligence. However, with the reason and knowledge we possess, humans should be able to protect nature as our home.”

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She added, “Through a strong community, smart tourism can be realized, leading to a greener Bali. Our culture teaches us not to harm nature. That’s the spirit behind Bali’s appeal. While many areas boast beautiful scenery, the Balinese cultural character is a unique attraction.”

As Indonesia remains on high alert with early warnings for Tropical Cyclone Senyar issued by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), tourists in Bali are urged to keep a close eye on updates issued by the BMKG and the BNPB. While Tropical Cyclone Senyar will impact Sumatra and Malaysia, flooding has also been reported in Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the Philippines. 

Tourists in Bali have been issued with an official warning to prioritise safety and caution this week. While Bali remains safe for tourists, the risk of flooding, landslides, and fallen trees is increased with this weather front moving through. 

Speaking to reporters, the Badung Deputy Police Chief, Commissioner I Gede Suarmawa, shared, “We urge the public to exercise caution during heavy rain and extreme weather. Avoid activities in disaster-prone areas and increase vigilance when driving to prevent accidents.” 

He confirmed that Bali Police work in collaboration with the BMKG to issue updates and deploy emergency response teams on standby to strategic locations.

Suarmawa explained, “We continue to map vulnerable areas. Every two hours, we receive data updates from the BMKG and issue warnings to residents.”

He concluded, “Our shared safety is our priority. We urge the public to remain vigilant and remind each other.”

Tourists are advised to follow the Bali Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) on Instagram, where alerts, warnings, and weather forecasts are published in both Bahasa Indonesia and English.