Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, has issued new regulations for foreign visitors to protect the island’s cultural practices and maintain respectful and sustainable tourism.
Under the rules, visitors must respect sacred sites, religious symbols, and Balinese customs. They are required to wear appropriate clothing in public areas and tourist spots. Proper behaviour is expected in temples, restaurants, and on the streets.
The circular lists specific prohibitions, such as entering temples without traditional Balinese clothing, climbing sacred trees, and behaving disruptively at spiritual sites. It also bans littering, single-use plastics, and unsuitable behaviour, both in person and online.
This circular replaces one from 2023, which introduced similar rules but had limited effect. Implementation was affected by leadership changes and a lack of public education. The new version uses firmer language, clearer duties, and wider outreach, including through schools and traditional village networks.
Industry representatives have largely supported the measures but emphasise the need for enforcement.
I Putu Winastra, chairman of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali Chapter, stated: “The key challenge lies not only in having regulations in place but in ensuring their proper enforcement. Clear penalties for violations are crucial to making these rules effective.”
Nyoman Subrata, managing director of Bali Bedira Anugrah Tour & Travel, said education was essential for preserving culture: “Education and outreach about the new rules must get to not only tourists but also local residents. Communities, traditional leaders, and local authorities are the front line. Their discipline in upholding cultural values is vital.”
Sugeng Suprianto, managing director of Top Indonesia Holidays, suggested improving surveillance. “Increasing the number of CCTV cameras across Bali would provide a simple yet effective way to monitor compliance,” he said, adding that it would enhance both security and public trust.
