The exquisite beauty and majestic allure of Bali have ignited a global desire for vacationing in this stunning destination. Bali continues to be a top-rated tourist hot spot for international travelers. However, with the increasing number of foreign tourists, the costs of maintaining and preserving Bali’s pristine environment have also risen. As a result, discussions have arisen regarding the potential implementation of an entry fee for foreign tourists.
According to recent reports from various sources, the Bali Provincial Government is considering the introduction of an entrance fee or retribution for foreign tourists (commonly known as “wisman”) visiting Bali, set at Rp 150,000. This proposed tariff would be applicable for a single visit to the island, and an online or e-payment system is being contemplated for convenient payment. Bali’s Governor, I Wayan Koster, hopes to implement this policy by the year 2024.
Speaking about the entry fee, Governor Koster emphasized using the Indonesian rupiah as the reference currency to prevent tourists from being affected by fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate. “We have set the entry fee at Rp 150,000 for one visit to Bali,” he stated during a meeting at the Bali Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) on July 12, 2023, as reported by Detiknews.
The funds collected from this proposed levy would contribute to the region’s local income (PAD) and be utilized for infrastructure development. Governor Koster assured that the revenue would be carefully managed by relevant authorities in a transparent and accountable manner.
Further insights on the matter were provided by Tjok Bagus Pemayun, Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office. He explained that the proposed retribution fee, which is currently under discussion with the Bali Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), is based on the 2023 Law on Bali Province. The main goal behind proposing this retribution, as stated by Tjok Bagus, is to preserve Bali’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, ensuring its sustainability for the enjoyment of future generations of tourists.
“Our basis for proposing this levy is to preserve Bali’s nature and culture so that it can continue to be enjoyed by tourists,” said Tjok Bagus.
The prospect of implementing this policy has sparked diverse responses from various quarters, including government officials and foreign tourists themselves.
Response from the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Menparekraf) regarding the Entry Fee Policy for Foreign Tourists
Regarding this matter, the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Menparekraf), Sandiaga Uno, also provided his response. According to Sandiaga, the implementation of the levy for foreign tourists visiting Bali aims to preserve the environment, as well as the traditions and culture that are the main attractions of Bali.
This is because Bali is a prominent destination for international visitors to Indonesia, so through this levy, the quality of tourism in Bali will be preserved and even enhanced.
“The intention is good, so that foreign tourists who visit Bali, with the target of 4.5 million foreign visitors this year, will contribute to preserving our culture, conserving nature, and also conserving the environment and culture. Hopefully, we can socialize this well,” said Sandiaga, in “The Weekly Brief With Sandi Uno” at the Sapta Pesona Building, Central Jakarta, on Monday (July 17).
Sandiaga also admitted that he and other policymakers are currently working diligently to finalize the regulations, which are planned to be implemented next year.
Response from Foreign Tourists regarding the Entry Fee Policy
On the other hand, opinions from foreign tourists have also surfaced, providing unique perspectives on the proposed retribution. Theo, a tourist from the Netherlands, expressed understanding and support for the fee, considering it a small contribution towards Bali’s infrastructure and cultural development. However, he questioned the existing visa fee of Rp 500,000 for foreign tourists, wondering about its allocation.
“If it’s really for the preservation of nature and culture, then it’s okay; it’s not a significant amount of money. But I paid 500,000 for the visa; what is that money used for?” said Theo, when met in Kuta, Bali, on Thursday (February 13).
Theo stated that he is ready to come to Bali again and pay Rp 150,000 with full love. However, he wonders about the proper use of the levy funds by the Bali Provincial Government.
Another tourist, Karina from Russia, suggested seeking approval from local residents before implementing the retribution policy. She emphasized that ensuring the comfort and well-being of local communities is essential. She also acknowledged that foreign tourists bring revenue to the island but highlighted the significance of their positive impact on the local population.
“I don’t know because I wasn’t born in this country. I think the decision should also have the consent of the local residents,” said Karina, when met at Pantai Jerman, Kuta.
“Even if we, Russians, will still come to Bali, what’s more important is to ensure that the local residents are comfortable; that’s what matters. Tourists will come with money, but the focus should be on the positive impacts on the local residents,” she added.
Draws Attention from Foreign Media
The international community seems to need to be vigilant from the beginning as Bali is a popular and favorite destination for foreign tourists. One of the media outlets aware of this policy is Channel News Asia (CNA).
CNA reports that Bali is attempting to capitalize on its popularity to increase revenue and protect its tourist attractions by asking tourists to pay a certain amount.
Believed Not to Reduce the Interest of Foreign Tourists
Governor Koster, despite the varied reactions, is confident that the entry fee policy will not deter foreign tourists from visiting Bali. On the contrary, he believes it will enhance the island’s tourism experience by channeling funds towards improving environmental preservation and infrastructure, making Bali even more comfortable and secure for visitors.
Additionally, Koster also pledged to take strict action against unruly tourists who desecrate Bali’s sacred sites, which are predominantly Hindu.
Previously, Bali has deported a Russian woman who posted nude photos on a sacred tree in April. Besides that, there have been many other deportation measures, including against tourists who were naked on Mount Agung.
Due to numerous complaints from the public regarding the peculiar behavior of foreign tourists, the Bali government also issued a guidebook for tourists in Bali. The do’s and don’ts guide was launched in June after being signed by the Bali Immigration Office.
As information, more than two million tourists visited Bali last year. As Bali recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has begun cleaning up and taking action against tourists who violate the rules.
It is important to note that the Bali Provincial Government must approach the formulation of this entry fee policy with caution, considering the potential impact on foreign tourist numbers if any measures are perceived as burdensome. Simultaneously, a well-executed retribution policy has the potential to significantly enhance services, maintenance, and protection of Bali’s treasures, provided that the collected revenue is efficiently allocated to its intended purposes.
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