The Bali Provincial Government is under pressure to implement stronger measures to protect tourists visiting the island paradise.
Recent Incidents Spark Concerns
From tragic accidents involving tourists, like the recent falling tree incidents at popular attractions, to a shocking assault on a tourist by a taxi driver during New Year’s Eve celebrations, it’s clear that tourists in Bali face real dangers. These alarming occurrences have prompted Indonesian politicians to hold the local authorities accountable.
Calls for Action from Local Leaders
Among those speaking out is Chusnunia Chalim, the Deputy Chairperson of the Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives. Chalim, who also serves as the Vice Governor of Lampung, expressed her worries regarding the safety of tourists in Bali during a recent press conference.
Safety Must be a Prioritized Effort
“We hope that all tourism stakeholders truly prioritize safety and security aspects,” Chalim affirmed, noting that ensuring safety isn’t solely the government’s responsibility. It requires collaboration from various sectors, including law enforcement and the local community.
The Need for More Tourism Police
Chalim pointed out the necessity of increasing the number of tourism police on the island. Currently, a tourist civil service police unit exists, but their patrols are limited, often focused only on ensuring tourists have paid their Bali Tourism Tax Levy.
Bali’s Reputation at Stake
Chalim, affectionately known as Nunik, acknowledged existing efforts in Bali but stressed that there’s room for improvement. “The security factor is very important,” she emphasized, highlighting that safety should be considered just as vital as the 3A’s of tourism – access, amenities, and attractions.
Combatting Crime: A Collaborative Effort
While Bali enjoys a reputation for being relatively safe for tourists, recent high-profile crimes cannot be overlooked. A notable incident involved a 33-year-old Chinese tourist who was the victim of a serious assault by a motorcycle taxi driver. After celebrating New Year’s Eve, she found herself in a dangerous situation, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and better safety resources for tourists.
Practical Tips for Tourists
For travelers, especially those venturing out alone at night, it is wise to utilize trusted transportation apps, such as Grab or GoJek. Implementing the safety features available on these apps—like sharing your live location with friends—can provide an extra layer of security.
Looking Ahead: Bali’s Tourism Goals
With Bali aiming to welcome 6.5 million international visitors by 2025, it is critical to enhance safety measures across the island’s attractions. As we prepare to welcome millions of tourists, ensuring their safety is essential for maintaining Bali’s cherished reputation as a dream destination.
In conclusion, as we reflect on these unfortunate incidents, it’s clear that a community-wide push for enhanced safety protocols is necessary. After all, we want our experiences in Bali to be filled with joy, peace, and unforgettable memories—not fear and concern. So, whether you’re a first-time traveler or a repeat visitor, stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy everything this beautiful island has to offer!
