Bali Implements New Guidelines to Curb ‘Naughty’ Tourist Behavior

Bali, Indonesia – April 4, 2025
Bali, often acclaimed as the "Island of the Gods," has introduced a stringent set of regulations aimed at regulating foreign visitors and promoting responsible tourism. These new guidelines, which build on the "Do’s and Don’ts" established in 2023, come in response to a rising number of incidents of disrespectful behavior by tourists. Governor Wayan Koster, newly re-elected, has taken a firm stance against what he terms “naughty” conduct and made it clear that significant penalties will be enforced.

Overview of the New Guidelines

The updated guidelines outline essential behaviors that tourists should either embrace or avoid while visiting this popular destination. The rules include a clearly defined list of "Dos" and "Don’ts."

Key "Dos"

1. Respect Local Customs: Tourists are encouraged to dress modestly and behave appropriately in cultural and sacred sites, including temples and during local ceremonies.
2. Use Authorized Services: Visitors should only utilize licensed guides, registered accommodation, official currency exchange outlets, and the Indonesian QR code system for payments.
3. Comply with Local Laws: It is imperative for tourists to familiarize themselves with and adhere to local laws, including traffic regulations and guidelines specific to tourist attractions.

Key "Don’ts"

1. Avoid Disrespectful or Illegal Behavior: This includes actions such as trespassing in sacred areas, littering, using single-use plastics, and exhibiting aggressive behavior in person or online.
2. No Unauthorized Work or Trade: Foreign visitors, particularly digital nomads and long-stay tourists, must refrain from working or trading without the necessary permits.

New Enforcement Measures

A significant shift in the 2025 regulations is the transition from an educational framework to legally binding enforcement. Tourists arriving in Bali will now be required to participate in a mandatory cultural orientation video. Additionally, they will need to pay a foreign tourist levy of IDR 150,000, approximately €9. To oversee compliance, the local enforcement team, known as SatPol PP, will actively monitor tourist behavior. Penalties for violations can range from being denied access to attractions to facing legal consequences such as fines, imprisonment, or deportation. Locals have also been encouraged to report any infractions directly via WhatsApp, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring that tourism positively impacts the community and the environment.

Cultural Respect: A Fundamental Principle

The move to tighten regulations follows a series of concerning incidents, such as the deportation of two Polish tourists in 2023 after a video surfaced of them disrespecting local customs during Nyepi, the Day of Silence, when the island observes a total halt for reflection and meditation. Governor Koster emphasized that, while Bali welcomes tourists, it expects "sincere respect" for local traditions and customs.

These guidelines were announced shortly before the recent Nyepi celebration, highlighting the importance of cultural observance during the sacred day.

Balancing Tourism and Cultural Heritage

While the crackdown on improper tourist conduct is aimed at protecting Balinese culture, it raises questions about the balance between enforcing regulations and the island’s heavy economic reliance on tourism. In 2019, tourism accounted for 60-70% of Bali’s gross domestic product (GDP), and by 2024, the island had welcomed over 6.33 million visitors, surpassing pre-pandemic records.

Officials are now tasked with creating a sensible equilibrium that safeguards the profound cultural heritage of Bali while maintaining its appeal to international travelers.

As these new guidelines take effect, the authorities hope to foster a more respectful and enjoyable environment for both locals and tourists alike.