Indonesian Vice President Urges Ongoing Support for Bali’s Tourism and Cultural Heritage
Denpasar, Bali – July 4, 2025
Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called upon the Balinese people and all stakeholders to continue their efforts in preserving and promoting Bali’s rich tourism and cultural heritage. His remarks were delivered during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Bali Arts Festival (PKB) held at the Ardha Candra Open Stage in Taman Budaya, Denpasar.
Highlighting the positive post-pandemic recovery of the island’s tourism sector, Vice President Gibran shared information from the Bali governor about the steady increase in hotel occupancy rates and tourist arrivals. “After the COVID-19 pandemic, hotel occupancy and tourist arrivals have continued to rise. I sincerely thank everyone for their contribution. Let’s keep supporting Bali so that the hotel occupancy, tourist numbers, and the overall tourism sector continue to grow,” he emphasized.
The Bali Arts Festival, marking its 47th edition this year, is recognized as one of the most important cultural events that drive tourism on the island. It draws sizable crowds, evident from the packed venue even an hour before the festival’s official 7 p.m. start time. “The overwhelming enthusiasm from the public is clear, and it confirms Bali’s position as a favorite destination for tourists,” Gibran noted.
Beyond tourism, the Vice President pointed out that the festival plays a critical role in supporting the local creative economy, benefiting countless small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He highlighted the festival’s positive ripple effects on various sectors, including ride-hailing drivers, hotels, taxis, food vendors, craft shops, and souvenir sellers. “This vibrant activity shows that Bali’s economy is gaining momentum,” he said.
The Vice President also urged Indonesians nationwide to continue their support for domestic tourism in an effort to keep pace with the international tourism industry. He reiterated President Prabowo Subianto’s vision to bolster domestic tourism by adding unique and exciting destinations across the country. “Strengthening tourism supports our broader national goals, and we will keep working tirelessly to develop new attractions,” Gibran added.
The Bali Arts Festival is part of the Ministry of Tourism’s Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) calendar, which highlights significant cultural and tourism events across Indonesia.
As the island continues its resurgence following the pandemic’s challenges, Vice President Gibran’s call for sustained support underscores the importance of Bali as both a cultural treasure and an economic powerhouse within Indonesia’s tourism sector.
Reported by ANTARA News, Denpasar
Photo Credit: ANTARA/Ni Putu Putri Muliantari
Translator: Yoanita Hastryka Djohan
Editor: Anton Santoso
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