Bali urges tourists to show respect for its local culture

Published on June 11, 2024

By: Paramita Sarkar

Bali‘s, Acting Governor Sang Made Mahendra Jaya has issued important statements directed at tourists as the high season kicks off.

He is urging them to show respect for the local culture and customs of the island.

Joined by tourism leaders, the Acting Governor emphasizes the significance of embracing and honoring Bali’s traditions during their visit to the renowned paradise destination.

The call for cultural respect follows a surge in reports detailing instances of foreigners engaging in disruptive behavior across the island.

Over the recent weekend, Bali authorities received multiple complaints concerning foreign individuals violating the law, disturbing public peace, and displaying disregard for local customs.

Among the notable incidents, a foreign tourist instigated a physical altercation with a tour guide driver in Nusa Penida, triggered by a request to adhere to queuing etiquette for photographs.

Additionally, a South African national faced arrest for causing disturbances in the Batu Bolong area of Canggu, while a British tourist resorted to hijacking a vehicle, ultimately driving to Bali Airport.

In response to such breaches of conduct, Bali Police and Immigration authorities have collaborated to apprehend and detain a Spanish and a Colombian national.

Both individuals face imminent deportation proceedings after being discovered to have neglected to settle their dues with tourism service providers.

Ngurah Rai Suhendra, Head of the Bali Immigration Office, affirmed that comprehensive reports detailing the offenses of the detained individuals would be submitted in the coming days, underscoring the seriousness with which such infractions are treated.

These incidents serve as poignant reminders of the responsibility tourists bear in upholding the integrity of Bali’s cultural heritage and abiding by local laws.

As the island braces for an influx of visitors during the high season, the statements from Acting Governor Jaya serve as a timely call to action, urging tourists to approach their experience with reverence and cultural sensitivity.