Enhanced Security Measures Rolled Out at Bali Transport Hubs as Holiday Travel Surge Approaches

Increased Security Measures at Bali’s Transportation Hubs Ahead of Festive Season

As Christmas approaches, Bali is witnessing a rise in tourist activity, prompting local authorities to boost security and ensure smooth travel across the island’s major transportation points. Over the next two weeks, government agencies will intensify their efforts to manage the heightened influx of visitors during the holiday period.

Enhanced Security Presence Across Bali’s Transport Facilities

All major transport hubs in Bali—including airports, harbors, and bus stations—are now staffed with additional security personnel. This expansion of manpower aims to maintain order, improve traffic coordination, and safeguard tourists throughout the peak season.

On December 18, 2025, the Benoa Class II Harbormaster and Port Authority inaugurated a dedicated Sea Transportation command post to oversee operations throughout the Christmas and New Year’s holiday period. This command post will be active until January 5, 2026, working tirelessly to guarantee safe and efficient travel on Bali’s waters.

Coordinated Efforts at Strategic Harbor Locations

The command post’s operations focus on three primary locations: Benoa Harbor, Sanur Harbor, and Serangan Harbor. Benoa Harbor serves as the central hub for logistics. Aprianus Hangki, Head of the Benoa Class II KSOP, highlighted that multiple agencies are collaborating within this initiative, including the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), regional government bodies (OPD), as well as port authorities such as Pelindo and Pelni.

Hangki emphasized the operation’s comprehensive scope, which prioritizes shipping safety by ensuring vessels are seaworthy and crews are qualified, supervising passenger and cargo capacities strictly, and strengthening coordination with meteorological and rescue agencies. “Safety cannot be compromised. The principle is zero compromise for safety,” Hangki stated.

Focus on Sanur Port Amid Increased Tourism and Weather Challenges

Sanur Port, a key gateway for tourists traveling to Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Lembongan, is expected to be particularly busy during the festive season. Fast boat services often reach full capacity over Christmas and New Year due to the surge in demand.

Authorities remain vigilant given the challenging weather conditions resulting from Cyclone Seed 93S and the ongoing rainy season. The heightened risk factors have intensified the commitment of security teams to safeguard all passengers and crews navigating Bali’s marine crossings.

Basarnas Head Nyoman Sidakarya confirmed that emergency response vessels—including the 40-meter Arjuna SAR Ship, rigid inflatable boats, and rescue boats—are on standby at Benoa Harbor. These resources are ready to respond to any emergencies involving fishing crews, fast boats, or tourists engaging in marine activities. “Following central government directives, we have deployed 144 personnel to stay alert for potential hydrological and geological disasters,” Sidakarya explained.

Expanded Security and Service at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport

The increased security measures extend to Bali’s main airport, I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport. On December 18, the airport also opened a Christmas and New Year Command Post. Airport General Manager Ahmad Syaugi Shahab indicated close collaboration with the Transportation Agency, airport police, the Indonesian Air Force, and traditional village authorities to ensure seamless vehicle flow to and from the airport.

Shahab expressed a firm commitment to provide travelers with a comfortable and safe experience during the holiday rush. To enhance passenger support, the airport has launched a new service initiative wherein staff actively circulate throughout terminals—offering assistance in key areas such as check-in, boarding lounges, and arrivals—to promptly address traveler needs.

Conclusion

With millions anticipated to travel through Bali during this festive season, local authorities are taking comprehensive measures to secure the island’s transportation hubs. Enhanced coordination among multiple agencies, increased staffing, and proactive emergency preparedness aim to uphold safety and order, helping visitors enjoy their holiday travels with peace of mind.