Bali’s Governor, Wayan Koster, is working on revising policies as he embarks on his second term. Given the significant role tourism plays in the island’s economy, the challenges currently faced by the tourism sector are drawing attention.
Governor Koster aims to implement decisive measures to enhance the overall quality of tourism on the island, benefiting both locals and visitors alike.
Governor Koster has released a new statement outlining his priorities for policy updates and changes in the coming months. Together with the Provincial Government, he is working on new legislation aimed at closing loopholes, addressing grey areas, and improving law enforcement within the tourism sector.
A key area of focus will be the regulation of tourism and taxi services. Governor Koster plans to introduce legislation requiring all commercial drivers in Bali to use vehicles that are licensed and registered within the province, complete with DK (Denpasar) license plates. Additionally, efforts will be made to restrict drivers from outside the province from operating in Bali.
The rules for tourists have largely remained unchanged, but stricter enforcement and increased monitoring are expected in the near future.
This typically involves more frequent traffic stops, with officers targeting foreign visitors who are riding motorcycles without helmets, wearing inappropriate clothing, using their phones, or engaging in illegal driving practices.
Governor Koster has consistently championed the preservation and promotion of Balinese culture and values.
Upon returning to office, Koster visited communities in Denpasar, where he outlined plans to empower community security groups. These groups will collaborate with local police and government agencies to address the increasing crime rate in the capital.
Earlier this week, representatives from the Bali Provincial Government and the Australian Consulate gathered to strengthen their ongoing partnership.
Australian Consulate-General Jo Stevens expressed her commitment to supporting the Bali Provincial Government. As Australian tourists continue to be the largest group of international arrivals in Bali, she confirmed that the Australian government would assist in promoting important guidelines for visitors to follow during their holidays.
