Bali, Indonesia’s crown jewel and one of the world’s most iconic tropical destinations, is at a crossroads. As the island faces a surge in foreign arrivals following its post-pandemic reopening, the Indonesian government has announced plans to conduct a comprehensive audit of Bali’s tourism sector.
Bali’s Surge In Tourism & Its Consequences
Bali’s reopening after the COVID-19 pandemic was a significant milestone. The island’s economy surged with travellers eager to return to its idyllic beaches and lush landscapes. However, the influx of tourists, while a boon for businesses that suffered during the pandemic, has also brought challenges. Data from Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism shows that foreign arrivals in Bali have exceeded pre-pandemic levels. This surge has strained Bali’s infrastructure, led to environmental degradation, and highlighted a growing disconnect between visitors and the local community. Many tourists arrive with little understanding of or respect for Bali’s customs and traditions, resulting in behaviour that often offends local sensibilities.
In the first half of this year, 2.9 million foreign visitors arrived on the island through Bali airport, making up 65% of all foreign arrivals by plane in Indonesia during that time, according to data from the country’s statistics department. The government has found that many foreign visitors from Indonesia and Bali bring problems with them, such as drugs, gangs, or other concerns. There are nightclubs and discos with in-house dancers in Bali, but strip clubs are not permitted there. Public nudity is forbidden in Indonesia. The government doesn’t want the scenic paddy fields to become a villa or become a nude club.
Preserving Local Culture
A key concern for many Balinese residents is the preservation of their culture in the face of growing tourist numbers. However, there is a growing fear that this heritage is being eroded by the pressures of mass tourism. The government aspires to prevent a scenario similar to Barcelona, when tourists turned into public enemies. The viral spread of videos showing disrespectful tourist behaviour has amplified the voices of residents and concerned citizens, putting pressure on the government to take decisive action. To address this, the audit will explore ways to promote cultural tourism that is both respectful and immersive.
Bali’s tourism industry stands at a critical juncture.
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons