Indonesia Launches New Immigration Task Force to Manage Tourist Behavior in Bali
In an effort to curb unlawful activities by foreign visitors, Indonesia has established a new immigration task force in Bali, aiming to maintain law and order across the island’s popular tourist destinations. The move, announced on August 5, 2025, seeks to address rising concerns about unruly tourist behavior that has affected the local community and Bali’s reputation as a premier travel spot.
Agus Andrianto, Indonesia’s Minister of Immigration and Corrections, officially inaugurated the Immigration Patrol Task Force in Denpasar, Bali’s provincial capital. He stated that the task force’s mission focuses on “suppressing illegal acts by foreigners” and ensuring a prompt response to immigration violations. This initiative is a direct implementation of President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to enhance stability and security on the island, which remains a vital hub for Indonesia’s tourism industry.
The task force consists of approximately 100 uniformed immigration officers who patrol key tourist hotspots on motorcycles and in cars. These areas include well-known surfing destinations such as Canggu and Seminyak, the cultural and spiritual center of Ubud, and the coastal seafood town of Jimbaran. Each officer is equipped with body cameras and safety vests to ensure transparency and safety during patrols.
Patrols are conducted randomly but regularly across these high-traffic areas to discourage illegal behaviors and swiftly address any immigration-related issues. Initially set to run through August 31, the program may be extended depending on its effectiveness and ongoing needs.
While authorities emphasize that the task force is intended to protect both tourists and local residents, some critics have voiced concerns that the visible presence of uniformed officers might intimidate visitors and detract from the island’s typically relaxed atmosphere. Nonetheless, officials maintain that ensuring security and legal compliance is critical for sustaining Bali’s appeal as a world-class destination.
The new Immigration Patrol Task Force represents Indonesia’s proactive approach to managing the challenges posed by increasing tourist numbers, particularly in light of recent incidents involving disorderly conduct by some foreign visitors. By reinforcing regulations and mobility controls, Bali hopes to preserve its unique cultural environment and enhance the overall experience for tourists and locals alike.
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