"It is never too late. We have confidence, sincerity, togetherness, and collaboration with all stakeholders. No regrets because it is late," he added.
Foreign tourists who work illegally can negatively impact local entrepreneurs, he said.
The tourism task force formed by the Bali provincial government has handled the cases of illegal foreign tourists well, he said. However, there is a need to raise awareness among tourists regarding the applicable laws and regulations, he added.
Many foreign tourists visit Bali for tourism purposes at first, but end up opening businesses illegally; this has been especially seen after the pandemic and can be attributed to the visa on arrival (VoA) and the second home visa policies, he observed.
"They live very cheaply in Indonesia. The fear is that the world community who travel here 'feels like' living here. If they stay, they will open businesses or work," Ariandi said.
According to him, enforcement is essential so that tourists can understand the government's intention in offering the second home visa, especially about the Rp2 billion (around US$133 thousand) requirement.
"Actually, the Rp2 billion is not for investment, but to ensure they can stay two to three years without starving. If they have money, they won't starve and won't take up someone else or locals' job," he explained.
Bali Kadin said that it is supporting the Bali provincial government's efforts in attracting quality tourists who understand that their presence is for leisure only.
"The tourists need to be aware. (The second home visa) does not mean they can spend millions of rupiah then run out of money and become motorcycle taxi (ojek) drivers, gymnastics, and yoga teachers, diving coaches, and anything else," he explained.
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Translator: Muliantari, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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