Bali Authorities Alarmed by Increasing Sham Marriages Among Foreign Nationals
Legislators urge action against fraudulent practices that exploit legal loopholes for land ownership
Bali, Indonesia – Lawmakers in Bali are raising concerns over a disturbing trend of sham marriages between foreign nationals and local residents, which are being used as a strategy to bypass Indonesia’s strict regulations on land ownership and immigration. This issue was brought back into the spotlight during the 12th plenary session of Bali’s regional legislature last week, as calls for action grow louder among officials.
I Gusti Ayu Mas Sumatri, a member of the Democrat-Nasdem faction, addressed lawmakers about alarming reports circulating on social media. These reports allege that certain foreigners are engaging in fraudulent “contract marriages” with locals specifically to gain access to purchase or control property in Bali. “Some foreign tourists commit fraudulent practices by doing contract marriages with local people for the purpose of being able to buy or control property in Bali,” Sumatri stated, referencing information from the local news outlet Tribun Bali.
The properties caught in this illicit practice often include lucrative real estate such as land, hotels, and villas, with a focus on sought-after tourist areas like Badung Regency. Sumatri has called for increased coordination between agencies, urging the governor to strengthen oversight measures involving immigration and law enforcement to address these illicit dealings.
As the discussion unfolds, there is a growing apprehension that such fraudulent practices are undermining the sanctity of marriage, which holds significant cultural importance in Bali. An editorial in Tribun Bali emphasized, “What should be sacred is now being exploited,” reflecting the sentiments of many locals who are aware of the practice but feel powerless to address it effectively.
The implications of sham marriages extend beyond individual cases, as they could potentially result in long-term consequences for the integrity of cultural and social institutions in Bali. Local government officials now face the challenge of balancing economic interests with the preservation of cultural values, as they seek to rein in this troubling phenomenon.
As Bali continues to attract a significant influx of tourists, the increase in these deceptive practices poses a serious threat not only to local property rights but also to the integrity of relationships within the community. As this situation develops, lawmakers are determined to find solutions that protect both cultural traditions and the rights of Indonesian citizens.
Add a comment