The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and the Indonesian National Tourism Board, Wonderful Indonesia, have issued a statement assuring tourists and travelers of the country’s safety in light of recent political protests. Statements have also been issued by Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster.
A post shared on the official Ministry of Tourism Instagram account explains, “The Ministry of Tourism assures all international visitors that Indonesia remains open and welcoming.”
“All major tourist destinations are accessible, with safety and public order as our highest priorities. We encourage all tourists to remain calm and continue their stay with confidence.”
The official statement reads, “The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia wishes to reassure all visitors that Indonesia remains open, welcoming, and all major tourist destinations across the country are accessible. We are fully committed to providing a safe and memorable travel experience.”
The statement continues, “In light of the current situation, we encourage all visitors to remain calm and continue enjoying their stay in Indonesia with confidence. The Indonesian Government is committed to maintaining public order and safeguarding the safety of all citizens and visitors.”
The statement issued by the Ministry of Tourism aligns with that issued by the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, released on September 2.
The office of the Governor of Bali shared, “The Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, stated that the demonstrations in Bali have ended and were successfully managed through close cooperation between the Governor and security forces, along with active participation of religious councils, Desa Adat (traditional villages), Pecalang (traditional security personnel), and all components of society.”
The statement added, “He also warmly invited tourists from all countries, as well as domestic visitors, to come to Bali and enjoy its natural beauty, the hospitality of its people, and the diversity and uniqueness of Balinese culture.”
While speaking in Sanur on Wednesday, 3rd September, Governor Koster told reporters, “I have issued a letter to all countries not to worry, Bali is safe and conducive.” Adding “There are no more problems, so with the letter I issued yesterday, everything is clear.”
When asked if the protests, which started in Jakarta on the 28th August, had had any immediate impact on tourist arrival figures, Governor Koster said no. He told reporters, “The bottom line is that Bali is safe and conducive. Tourists from various countries, both international and domestic, need not hesitate any longer. Please visit Bali.”
Adding “I’ve been monitoring the arrival of international and domestic tourists, and there’s been no decline. In fact, domestic tourists from various regions are coming to Bali.”
Speaking separately, the Head of the Bali Tourism Office, Wayan Sumarajaya, has also confirmed that Bali remains a safe and welcoming destination for tourists and reiterated that there are no calls for travellers to change their plans.
Sumarajaya told reporters, “Bali remains safe and conducive for all tourists, despite protests at the Bali Regional Police Headquarters in downtown Denpasar.”
He added, “Everyone understands that the safety and security of Bali are crucial, so activities to convey public aspirations to the government should not disrupt the safety and security of tourism.”
When asked about the impact of travel warnings issued by many international foreign affairs departments and embassies, Sumarajaya noted, “We really appreciate it when countries remind their citizens to travel if there are security concerns in a country, but we hope it won’t last long.”
The National Police Code of Ethics Commission hearing has confirmed that it has dishonorably discharged Commissioner Cosmas Kaju Gae, who was deemed to have committed a ‘serious violation’ which resulted in the death of online motorcycle driver Affan Kurniawan, who was run over by a Brimbok armoured vehicle during demonstrations in Jakarta on 28th August.
This incident sparked public outrage and was the incident that further intensified demonstrations in Jakarta, Denpasar, and other cities around Indonesia over the weekend.
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