13-7-2023 (JAKARTA) The popular Indonesian resort destination, Bali, will implement a new tourist tax of 150,000 rupiah (S$13.32) starting in 2024. The aim of the tax is to protect the island’s cultural heritage, according to officials.
Bali, often referred to as the “Island of Gods,” attracts millions of foreign visitors each year. With its picturesque beaches and tropical charm, the island is seeking ways to leverage its popularity to boost revenue and safeguard its cultural integrity.
Governor I Wayan Koster explained that the fee would be a one-time payment for foreign tourists visiting Bali. The tax must be paid electronically and will apply to both international tourists entering Bali from abroad and those arriving from other parts of Indonesia. However, domestic tourists from Indonesia will be exempt from the levy.
Official figures indicate that over two million tourists visited Bali in 2022 as the island rebounded from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Bali’s zero-tolerance policy for rule-breakers played a significant role in its successful recovery.
Addressing concerns about the potential deterrent effect of the new tax, Governor Koster expressed confidence that it would not significantly impact visitor numbers. He emphasized that the funds generated from the tax would be allocated towards preserving the environment, promoting culture, and improving infrastructure, ultimately enhancing the comfort and safety of tourists in Bali.
Bali has recently been taking measures to address incidents of misbehavior by tourists, including disrespectful acts towards the island’s predominantly Hindu culture. In June, a Danish woman was deported by Bali immigration after a video of her exposing herself while riding a motorbike went viral. Similarly, in April, a Russian woman was expelled from the island for posting a nude photo taken in front of a sacred tree.
In response to such incidents, the local government published a guide for tourists in June, highlighting the importance of respecting Bali’s cultural norms and providing useful information for visitors planning to explore the island.
