Bali Governor Wayan Koster stated in Denpasar that the circular outlines obligations, prohibitions, and sanctions for foreign tourists.
He earlier noted that a similar circular was released in 2023, but due to evolving circumstances during his 1.5-year hiatus as governor, some aspects had to be streamlined along the way.
Foreign tourists are required to respect the sanctity of temples, statues, and sacred religious icons.
"By sincerely respecting the customs, traditions, arts and culture as well as the local wisdom of the Balinese people in the ongoing ceremonial and ritual processions," Koster remarked.
The new circular order of the Bali Provincial Government mandates that foreign tourists wear modest and appropriate clothing, especially when visiting sacred sites, tourist attractions, and public places or while engaging in activities in Bali.
Foreign tourists are also expected to behave respectfully in holy areas, tourist locations, restaurants, shopping areas, streets, and public places.
The Bali Provincial Government also mandates that foreign tourists pay a levy of Rp150 thousand before departure or during their stay in Bali.
Once in Bali, they are required to be accompanied by a licensed tour guide who is knowledgeable about the natural environment, customs, traditions, and local wisdom of the Balinese people.
The circular includes transaction rules, such as exchanging foreign currency at official foreign exchange business operators (KUPVA) (banks and non-banks), using the Indonesian standard QR code for payments, and conducting transactions exclusively in the rupiah currency.
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Regarding traffic regulations, the governor has called on foreign tourists to drive responsibly by obeying the rules in Indonesia, such as holding an international or national driving license, being orderly in traffic, wearing appropriate attire, and using a helmet while riding a motorbike.
In addition, foreign tourists must obey traffic signs and are prohibited from exceeding passenger capacity on vehicles and driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or illegal substances.
"Using roadworthy four-wheeled transportation that is officially under the auspices of a transportation rental business entity or association," Koster emphasized.
Foreign tourists are also urged to book accommodation at licensed establishments and adhere to all special provisions that apply to each tourist attraction and tourist activity.
Foreign tourists are forbidden from entering the main and middle sections of holy places unless for the purpose of praying or climbing sacred trees; disrespectful behavior toward sacred sites is strictly prohibited.
To protect nature, foreign tourists are prohibited from littering or polluting springs and using single-use plastics.
The Bali governor also prohibited swearing, impolite behavior, conducting business activities, or working without official documents.
"Foreign tourists who violate the provisions will be subject to strict action in the form of sanctions or legal processes in accordance with the laws and regulations in Indonesia," he emphasized.
The Bali Provincial Government encourages locals to report misbehaving tourists by contacting 081-287-590-999 for immediate action against violations.
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Translator: Ni Putu Putri Muliantari, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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