Huge Casino Could Be Coming To Bali To Boost Tourism 

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Yes, you read that correctly!

There are plans on the table to develop a casino in Buleleng Regency in Bali.

For those unsure as to why this is such shocking news, let us explain…gambling in pretty much all forms is illegal in Indonesia. 

The Chair of the BPC HIPMI, Putu Bayu Mandayana, has responded to the proposed development of a casino in Buleleng Regency in North Bali.

The leader has given firm support to the speculative project as he feels it could help boost tourism and economic development in one of Bali’s lesser-visited regions.

The BPC HIPMI is the Islamic Students Association, and Mandayana, as the chairman of the association, has a hugely influential reach within both the Islamic communities in Bali and the youth movements.

Mandayana is an entrepreneur based out of Buleleng Regency and wants to see the region that is often branded as Bali’s poorest regency to flourish in the future. 

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Speaking to the press, Mandayana said, “In my opinion, the progress of a region cannot be separated from the economic movements within it. To increase the circulation of money massively, I think we can’t just rely on the local sector; Buleleng must be able to attract sources of money from outside to come here.”

He added, “We should not look at the casino solely as a place for gambling, but from the perspective, we should see it as a tourist destination. Moreover, if it happens in Buleleng, it will be the only strong, unique selling point here. And I think the people who will come in the future will be exclusive tourists with a more generous type.”

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Mandayana concluded, “I think it is time for Buleleng to receive more attention for significant economic development and progress. Don’t let us just target for collecting votes during the election, but after that, we will be forgotten.” 

For all his enthusiasm for the idea, Mandayana did not outline how a casino could even be developed. Since both casinos and gambling are currently illegal across all Indonesian provinces, there would have to be huge changes in both the law and public opinion in order for a project such as this to go ahead. 

Gambling and casinos are, however, legal in neighboring Singapore, Malaysia, and ASEAN partners Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Philippines. 

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Gambling is illegal in all provinces, including in Bali; in Aceh Province, gambling carries an even greater sentencing. According to Article 303 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, almost all forms of gambling are prohibited, including online.

It is illegal to engage in gambling-related activities, operate an establishment for gambling, or promote gambling in any form.

There are serious punishments for those who are guilty of gambling, too, including imprisonment and hefty fines. 

Gambling activities are permitted in very specific circumstances, such as in traditional games or in cultural festivals, though these kinds of activities are often seen as being tolerated rather than being explicitly legal.

Indonesia also facilitates a state-operated lottery called Togel, though this is strictly regulated by the top authorities. 

Nevertheless, Mandayana’s vision to bring more tourists and investment to Buleleng Regency is one that is supported by many in the region.

Leaders from the central and provincial governments have all been vocal about their desire to promote North and West Bali as incredible tourist destinations with buckets of untapped potential.

However, the plans these leaders have put on the table are far less controversial than the development of a casino. 

One of the most popular plans to help boost tourism in West Bali is to connect the region as a dual destination with East Java. It was confirmed earlier this month by the Buleleng Regency Tourism Department that a new collaboration project will be made with the Banyuwangi Tourism Department, East Java, to increase tourist visits.

The first step in this collaboration will be to develop better fast boat services between Gilimanuk and Lovina in Bali and Banyuwangi in East Java.

These destinations being promoted as a travel package would enable tourists to explore Indonesian natural wonders like the incredible Mount Ijen and the West Bali National Park with ease.