In an important announcement, Bali’s Police Chief Inspector General, Daniel Adityajaya, has reached out to international consulates in Bali, emphasizing the need for enhanced communication regarding local laws and cultural customs to improve tourist behavior. This initiative aims to foster a more respectful and law-abiding atmosphere for everyone on the island.
Understanding the Context: Recent Developments
Just a few days prior to this announcement, the province disclosed plans to deport six foreigners who had violated their visa conditions. This situation has highlighted the importance of legal compliance and the responsibility that comes with being a tourist in Bali.
The Police Chief’s Message
Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya addressed consulate generals from 40 different countries, reiterating that tourists are not immune to local laws. “Of course, in accordance with the law in Indonesia, if you commit a violation, it will be processed by law as usual,” he stated, reinforcing the message that respect for local regulations is critical.
Collaboration with Consulates: A Call for Assistance
General Adityajaya emphasized the collaboration needed between the police and diplomatic missions. As consulate generals often intervene when foreigners face legal issues, he appealed for stronger ties to ensure peace and order in Bali. “For that, we need to keep communicating with foreign countries,” he stated, acknowledging that agreements are in place for case handling.
The Rising Number of Legal Cases
Surprisingly, data indicates that the encounters between foreigners and the law are on the rise. As reported by Bali-based media outlet detikBali, the number of foreigners charged with crimes in Bali rose from 83 in 2023 to 108 in 2024, excluding immigration offenses. This uptick similarly applies to traffic violations, which reached 91 instances in 2024, up from 71 the previous year.
Bali’s Zero Tolerance Policy
Since the end of the pandemic, Bali has adopted a stricter stance against law violations, especially concerning immigration. A recent sting operation executed by Bali Immigration apprehended fourteen foreigners over a four-day span for immigration law violations.
On February 8, 2025, the Denpasar Immigration Office confirmed the arrest of six foreigners—hailing from countries like the UK, Canada, Ghana, and India—who faced imminent deportation due to significant visa violations.
Tourism Office’s Response: Ensuring Safety and Compliance
Despite the growing crime statistics, the Head of the Bali Tourism Office, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, reassured the public that Bali remains a safe and inviting destination. He linked many legal infringements to tourists’ ignorance of local laws and customs, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness.
Guidelines for Tourists: The Do’s and Don’ts
To avoid mishaps, it’s essential for travelers to familiarize themselves with Bali’s “Do’s and Don’ts” for tourism, a guide created by Governor Koster to enlighten visitors. This list outlines twelve obligations and eight prohibitions aimed at fostering respectful and lawful behavior while visiting.
Some key do’s include a reminder to respect Balinese culture and traditions, and to dress modestly, especially at sacred sites. On the flip side, significant prohibitions urge tourists against working without official documents and engaging in illegal activities like drug dealing or trading cultural artifacts.
As we continue to embrace Bali as a global tourist hotspot, let’s remember that every visitor has a part to play in preserving the island’s charm and integrity. Adhering to local laws not only ensures a pleasant experience but also contributes to the ongoing safety and welcome that Bali extends to the world.
