Bali Governor Implements New Regulations for Foreign Tourists
Denpasar, Bali – In a significant move aimed at enhancing the tourism experience while preserving local customs, Bali’s Governor, Wayan Koster, has enacted fresh policies impacting all international tourists visiting the island. This initiative comes as part of Governor Koster’s objectives to elevate the quality of tourism during his second term in office, following his recent re-election.
In a statement released on March 24, 2025, Koster introduced a document titled “Circular Letter (SE) No. 07 of 2025 concerning New Regulations for Foreign Tourists During Their Stay in Bali.” This circular serves as an update to previously established norms outlined in SE No. 4 of 2023, a framework established during his first term.
Refining Tourist Regulations
During a press briefing in the provincial capital of Denpasar, Governor Koster emphasized the importance of refining regulations due to evolving circumstances over the past eighteen months. “This circular letter is not just an appeal; it will be enforced through integrated supervision involving the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) and tourism institutions,” he affirmed.
As part of the enforcement mechanism, Koster announced the formation of a specialized team tasked with overseeing adherence to the new policies. He was firm in his warning to tourists, stating that violators would face stringent consequences. “Foreign tourists who are naughty will be immediately dealt with firmly,” he declared.
Cultural Respect at the Forefront
Central to these new regulations is a call for international visitors to engage respectfully with the rich customs and traditions of the Balinese people. Koster remarked, “We want tourists to sincerely respect the customs, traditions, arts, and culture as well as the local wisdom of the Balinese people during ongoing ceremonies and ritual processions.” His words underscore the critical nature of cultural sensitivity, especially with Nyepi—the Balinese Day of Silence—approaching on March 29. Overview of Updated Regulations
SE No. 07 of 2025 outlines specific provisions that foreign tourists are expected to follow, aimed at promoting ethical tourism practices. Key requirements include:
- Respecting the sanctity of temples (Pura), religious symbols, and sacred objects.
- Honoring local customs, traditions, arts, and culture.
- Wearing modest attire at sacred sites and public spaces.
- Paying the foreign tourist levy electronically via the official website.
- Being accompanied by a licensed tour guide at tourist attractions.
- Conducting currency exchanges only at approved money changers.
- Using the Indonesian Standard QR Code and Rupiah for transactions.
- Complying with local traffic regulations and carrying valid driver’s licenses.
- Staying in officially licensed accommodations and using recognized transportation services.
In addition to these obligations, the circular explicitly states prohibitions against certain behaviors, including:
- Entering sacred areas without appropriate attire except for prayer.
- Climbing sacred trees or exhibiting disrespectful behavior.
- Littering or using single-use plastics.
- Engaging in hate speech or aggressive conduct on social media.
- Working or conducting business without necessary permits.
- Participation in illegal activities, including the mishandling of cultural artifacts.
Community Involvement and Reporting Violations
Governor Koster urged all stakeholders—particularly those in the tourism sector—to understand, implement, and actively communicate these policies to both staff and tourists. As part of community engagement, the public is encouraged to report any violations through a dedicated WhatsApp hotline at 081-287-590-999. To bolster compliance, the Bali Satpol PP and local police forces have been directed to maintain strict oversight and enforce regulations transparently. Governor Koster’s administration is determined to strike a balance between welcoming international visitors and safeguarding the unique cultural identity of Bali.
As Bali embarks on this new chapter in tourism regulation, both the local government and the community are poised to work together, ensuring a respectful, enjoyable experience for tourists while preserving the island’s cherished traditions and environment.
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