Governor of Bali Issues New Circular to Regulate Foreign Tourists

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“Several aspects needed refinement due to the dynamics that have occurred over the past 1.5 years,” said Koster during a press conference at the Gedung Gajah Jayasabha, Denpasar, on Monday (24/3).  

The SE serves as the foundation for the issuance of several Governor Regulations (Pergub) and Regional Regulations (Perda) related to Bali Tourism Standards. Through these regulations, tourism operators in Bali will be organized according to agreed-upon standards. The goal is to realize a cultural, quality, and dignified tourism sector in Bali.  

“This SE is not just an appeal but will be enforced through integrated supervision involving the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) and tourism institutions in Bali,” emphasized Koster. He added that a special team will be formed to conduct enforcement operations. If foreign tourists are found violating the rules, they will face strict action.  

New Rules for Foreign Tourists 

SE No. 07 of 2025 outlines several provisions that foreign tourists must adhere to during their stay in Bali, including:  

  • 1. Respecting the sanctity of temples (Pura), religious symbols, and sacred objects.  
  • 2. Honoring local customs, traditions, arts, and culture.  
  • 3. Wearing modest and appropriate clothing when visiting sacred sites, tourist attractions, and public areas.  
  • 4. Paying the foreign tourist levy electronically via the website lovebali.baliprov.go.id.  
  • 5. Being accompanied by a licensed tour guide when visiting tourist attractions.  
  • 6. Exchanging foreign currency only at authorized money changers with permits from Bank Indonesia.  
  • 7. Using the Indonesian Standard QR Code and the Indonesian Rupiah for transactions.  
  • 8. Complying with traffic regulations, including possessing a valid international or national driver’s license.  
  • 9. Staying in licensed accommodations and using official transportation services.  

Strict Prohibitions for Foreign Tourists  

In addition to the obligations, the SE also prohibits foreign tourists from engaging in certain activities, such as:  

  • 1. Entering sacred areas (Utamaning Mandala and Madyaning Mandala) except for prayer purposes while wearing traditional Balinese attire.  
  • 2. Climbing sacred trees or behaving disrespectfully in sacred places.  
  • 3. Littering or using single-use plastics.  
  • 4. Using offensive language, behaving aggressively, or spreading hate speech on social media.  
  • 5. Working or conducting business without official permits.  
  • 6. Engaging in illegal activities, including the trade of flora, fauna, and cultural artifacts.  

Strict Sanctions for Violators  

Foreign tourists who violate these provisions will face sanctions or legal proceedings in accordance with Indonesian laws. Additionally, those who have not paid the foreign tourist levy will be denied services at tourist attractions.  

The public is also encouraged to actively report violations through the WhatsApp hotline at 081-287-590-999. The Satpol PP and Bali Regional Police have been tasked with conducting strict supervision and taking firm action against any violations.  

“All parties must understand, implement, and socialize this SE to their staff and foreign tourists visiting Bali,” concluded Governor Koster.  

The circular takes effect immediately upon its issuance and is expected to strengthen Bali’s tourism governance, ensuring it remains a cultural, quality, and dignified destination. 

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