The Indonesian Minister for Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, has visited Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster to discuss the future of tourism in the province.
While Indonesia comprises more than 17,000 islands, Bali is by far the most popular tourist destination in the country.
Indonesian Minister for Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, visited Denpasar over the Weekend to meet with provincial leaders to discuss the future of tourism on the island.
The Ministry of Tourism has affirmed its commitment to ‘strengthening synergy and collaboration’ with the Bali Provincial Government to help develop high-quality and sustainable tourism in the province.
As well as providing impactful solutions to challenges and issues faced by the busiest tourism destination in the country.
Minister Wardhana told reporters, “Let us pay special attention to Bali.” Sh noted that there are several major challenges facing the province impacting tourists, local communities, the government, the natural landscape, and the economy.
She noted that the issue of illegal villas, businesses operating without permits and licences, is a huge cause for concern. In light of the current demolition work happening at Bali’s Bingin Beach, Minister Wardhana also references that spatial planning and tourism infrastructure development need to be looked at closely.
Minister Wardhana explained, “We also understand that there are currently challenges in Bali related to the behaviour of some tourists. We will continue to promote tourist education through collaboration with the Indonesian Embassy and other channels. Particularly promoting do’s and don’ts in accordance with local values and regulations.”
She added, “We are committed to supporting the direction of Bali tourism development planned by Governor Wayan Koster, even for the next 100 years. Bali tourism must grow in a targeted manner, be fair to the community, and be sustainable for future generations.”
Minister Wardhana was speaking to the 100-Year Bali Development Guidelines of Law Number 15 of 2023, which set out a vision for the next century of development and tourism in the province. The policy was created during Governor Koster’s first term in office and garnered the backing of former President Megawati Sukarnoputri.
Governor Koster told reporters, “What the Minister explained is very appropriate, addressing various crucial issues in Bali, especially in supporting quality and sustainable tourism. Hopefully this can be followed up soon.”
He also reiterated the regulations and policies that the Provincial Government has introduced to help develop more sustainable tourism in the region. Governor Koster explained, “In the tourism sector, Bali Province prioritises the concept of culture-based, quality and dignified tourism.”
He continued, “Through Bali Regional Regulation Number 5 of 2022, gubernatorial regulations and the circulars on tourism governance, the local government is encouraging the entry of tourists who love and care about Bali.”
Governor Koster explained how changes in the tourism sector will impact holidaymakers and travellers in the years to come. He revealed, “Tourists will be subject to stricter regulations in the future. They must at least have proof of financial means, a round-trip ticket, and pay the foreign tourist levy.
They cannot ever do so without permission.” Though it is technically already the case that foreigners must be able to produce proof of financial means, proof of onward travel, and have paid the Bali Tourism Tax Levy, enforcement and checks are not all that strict.
Governor Koster wants to make it mandatory that all arrivals to Bali show evidence before being granted entry.
Minister Wardhana also spoke to the need for Bali to greatly level up infrastructure and pledged her support for the Bali Urban Railway network, which is being constructed, and emphasised the need to continue discussing the development of the North Bali International Airport.
Minister Wardhana also pledged the continued support of the Ministry of Tourism for the development of the newly fully operational Sanur Health Special Economic Zone.
Remove All Ads & Unlock All Articles… Sign up for The Bali Sun Premium
Plan Your Bali Holiday:
Book The Best English Speaking Drivers For Airport Transfers & Tours
Choose From Thousands of Bali Hotels, Resorts, and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties
Book Cheap Flights To Bali
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance That Covers Medical Expenses In Bali
For the latest Bali News & Debate Join our Facebook Community
SUBSCRIBE TO NEW POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Bali Sun’s latest breaking news, straight to your inbox.
Discover more from The Bali Sun
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.