No Impact on Tourist Visits in Bali Following Shooting Incident, Says Deputy Minister
Jakarta, June 23, 2025 — Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, has assured the public that the recent shooting incident involving Australian nationals in Bali has not affected tourist arrivals from Australia. Speaking to reporters after attending an event in Denpasar on June 21, 2025, she emphasized that tourism from Australia continues to grow steadily each year and remains robust despite the incident.
Australia remains one of the top three source countries for tourists visiting Bali, which serves as a primary gateway for nearly half of Indonesia’s foreign visitors. Deputy Minister Ni Luh Puspa expressed hope that the trend of increasing arrivals from Australia would continue unaffected.
Incident Background and Investigation
The shooting occurred on June 14 at Casa Santisya 1 Villa in Munggu Village, Badung District, Bali. The attack involved three Australian nationals, resulting in the death of a 33-year-old Australian man identified as ZR and the injury of another Australian, SG, aged 35. Bali Regional Police have named three Australian suspects — TPM (37), CM (23), and DFJ (37). According to Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya, Chief of Bali Regional Police, the shooting was premeditated by DFJ, with the other two suspects acting as executors.
The injured survivor, SG, is currently relocated to a secure location under police supervision and the Australian Consulate’s care as investigations continue.
Travel Advisory Context
The Deputy Minister clarified that the shooting incident is unrelated to the updated travel advisory issued by the Australian government on June 20, 2025. This advisory, provided through the official Smartraveller platform, highlights general travel cautions, including respecting local customs, awareness of strong rip currents at beaches, and risks of drink spiking.
She noted that such advisories are common practice and serve to encourage travelers to prioritize safety and respect for local communities. This approach aligns with Indonesia’s own travel advisories for its citizens traveling abroad.
Calls for Enhanced Security in Tourism Sector
While expressing concern over the incident, Deputy Minister Ni Luh Puspa praised the swift response of Bali police in apprehending the suspects. She also used the occasion to call for strengthened security measures within the tourism industry.
“I urge all hotel operators to re-evaluate and improve security within their premises," she stated. She underscored that ensuring safety is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement but requires collaboration from the Ministry of Tourism, local governments, communities, and tourism businesses.
The Ministry of Tourism views the incident as a critical reminder of the importance of maintaining high security standards to protect visitors and uphold Bali’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.
Looking Ahead
Despite the isolated security incident, tourism officials remain confident in Bali’s appeal and safety. The Ministry of Tourism continues to monitor developments closely and works alongside the police and local stakeholders to prevent future occurrences.
For travelers planning visits to Bali, the message remains clear: respect local customs, exercise vigilance, and enjoy the island’s rich cultural and natural offerings in a safe environment.
Reported by Ni Putu Muliantari and Uyu Liman
Edited by Arie Novarina
© ANTARA News 2025
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