Bali Governor Denounces Claims of Tourism Downturn as a Hoax
Denpasar, Bali – December 24, 2025 — Bali Governor Wayan Koster has firmly dismissed recent claims circulating on social media that suggest a downturn in Bali’s tourism sector during the year-end holiday period, labeling such reports as outright “hoaxes.”
Speaking to ANTARA news agency during his visit to the Port of Benoa in Denpasar on Wednesday, Governor Koster clarified that data from the tourism sector paint a very different picture—one that shows continued growth and robust visitor arrivals. “We recorded an increase in tourism visits, which means that the tourism downturn claims on social media are a hoax,” he said.
The governor stressed that descriptions of “lackluster” tourism activities during the busy holiday season are without foundation. He pointed out that Bali has already welcomed 6.8 million foreign tourists on a year-to-date basis in 2025, surpassing the 6.3 million foreign visitors recorded in 2024. Furthermore, from December 19 to 22 alone, the island received an average of 20,000 foreign tourists daily. Based on current trends, Governor Koster expressed optimism that Bali would reach a total of 7 million foreign visitors by the end of this year.
Supporting the governor’s stance, the Indonesian Hotels and Restaurants Association (PHRI) in Badung District reported strong domestic tourism figures. According to Komang Alit Ardana, Deputy Head of PHRI Badung, Bali welcomed 9 million domestic tourists this year, with projections estimating the figure could rise to 10.5 million by year’s end. Ardana also cautioned against unfair comparisons of Bali’s tourism performance with neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, or Thailand, suggesting that rival destinations may be behind the negative narratives. “We must play a role in promoting Bali tourism and affirm that Bali remains a popular and must-visit destination,” he said.
Operational data from Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport further underline the sector’s strength. Between December 15 and 23, 2025, the airport recorded a total of 126,152 domestic arrivals and 192,960 international arrivals. On average, the airport saw 67,112 arriving passengers daily and managed approximately 423 flight movements each day during this period.
The strong figures come amid preparations to enhance Bali’s tourism offerings. Notably, local authorities have been gearing up to provide indoor tourism options in response to variable year-end weather conditions, reflecting efforts to maintain visitor satisfaction despite seasonal challenges.
The governor’s comments and supporting industry data aim to counter misinformation and reassure stakeholders—including tourists, investors, and local businesses—that Bali’s tourism sector remains vibrant and resilient as the year concludes.
For more updates on Bali’s tourism sector and other news from Indonesia, stay tuned to ANTARA.
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