Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto Visits Bali After Severe Floods Disrupt Tourism in Denpasar, Canggu, and Seminyak
Bali, Indonesia — In the wake of devastating floods that have severely impacted Bali’s key tourist destinations and local communities, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto made a visit to the island on September 13, 2025, to oversee relief efforts and evaluate government responses to the crisis.
Flood Impact on Bali’s Tourism and Local Communities
Heavy rains have unleashed widespread flooding across Bali, most notably affecting Denpasar, Canggu, Seminyak, and surrounding areas. These floods have caused significant damage to infrastructure, displaced residents, and disrupted tourism operations—a critical sector for the island’s economy.
Bali’s Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported 335 disaster points island-wide, with Mengwi District, North Kuta, and Abiansemal being particularly hard-hit. In Denpasar alone, over 210 tonnes of debris have been cleared but authorities warn that recovery remains challenging. Search and Rescue teams, including Basarnas, police, the military, and traditional village guards known as Pecalang, continue to aid evacuations and search efforts, with tragic reports of missing and deceased individuals emerging during clean-up operations.
Presidential Visit and Coordinated Government Response
President Prabowo Subianto personally assessed the flood damage in Denpasar, walking through streets covered in mud and debris while engaging directly with affected residents and small business owners. His office emphasized that the government’s priorities include delivering basic necessities, quickly repairing infrastructure, and maintaining emergency relief until communities are fully stabilized.
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and Tourism Minister Widiyanti Wardhana joined the visit, underscoring the administration’s commitment to the affected areas. Local leaders, such as Governor Wayan Koster and Denpasar Mayor Jaya Negara, have been actively involved in coordinating recovery initiatives. Meanwhile, Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq highlighted the urgent need for sustainable, long-term policies aimed at reducing future disaster risks.
Emergency Measures and Ongoing Response
In response to continued risks, Governor Wayan Koster declared a province-wide state of emergency effective until at least September 17, 2025. Disaster response teams are working tirelessly around the clock to provide safety, shelter, and food assistance. Officials stress that support efforts will persist until the situation is fully under control and the affected areas are safe for residents and visitors.
Tourism Sector Adjustments and Traveler Advisory
Despite the extensive flooding, Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism reassured travelers that Bali remains open for tourism. Visitors are encouraged to remain informed through official channels, including the Bali Center for Climatology, Meteorology, and Geophysics, which provides daily weather updates. Guests are advised to confirm evacuation plans and safety protocols with hotels or property owners before traveling.
Many resorts, especially in regions like Seminyak, Ubud, and Nusa Dua, have implemented emergency procedures to protect guests. Travel experts recommend flexible itineraries, comprehensive travel insurance, and caution against visiting affected rural areas until authorities declare them safe.
Looking Forward: Recovery and Resilience
While immediate cleanup and relief efforts continue, rebuilding sustainable infrastructure and enhancing environmental management remain priorities for Bali’s leadership. Governor Koster has emphasized the importance of these long-term strategies to mitigate the impact of future flooding.
Although some areas are recovering, Bali still offers a wealth of attractions in places less affected by the floods, including Uluwatu, Sanur, and Nusa Dua. Cultural events and family-friendly activities are proceeding as scheduled, signaling resilience and hope for a return to normalcy.
Bali’s Enduring Spirit
Bali has a history of facing natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, consistently demonstrating remarkable resilience. The combined efforts of national and local government officials, disaster response teams, and community groups are driving recovery. Authorities remain focused on restoring confidence among tourists and ensuring Bali maintains its status as a premier global travel destination.
As Bali recovers from the floods, the tragedy underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and improved disaster preparedness amid changing environmental conditions, aimed at safeguarding this iconic tourist paradise for future generations.
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