Minister Sandiaga Uno Clarifies Bali's Foreign Tourist Tax of Rp150,000

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno confirmed that the levy of Rp150,000, or approximately US$10, for foreign tourists entering Bali is aimed at preserving the environment.

“Bali provincial government will continue to coordinate with our Task Force because this is for conservation. The initial idea [behind the tourist tax] is to ensure environmental sustainability, and preserve customs and local wisdom,” Sandiaga said after opening the 2023 International Tourism Investment Forum (ITIF) in Badung, Bali, on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.

Sandiaga said the levy is expected not to be a new additional fee but a contribution to environmental sustainability for the coming years, protecting the island’s tourism ecosystem.

In response to concerns that the policy would lower foreign tourist visits, the minister said it is not an influential block, and tourists support Bali to preserve its culture and environment.

Huge costs and collaborative work of all parties, he argued, are necessary to achieve this goal. The government would keep monitoring the agenda, including the ongoing process.

“All tourists want Bali to be maintained, all tourists also want a beautiful Bali like this: the waste is well managed, the coral reefs are protected, the mangroves are in good condition,” he said.

Sandiaga Uno further stated that it is time for Bali to offer foreign tourists to contribute to the sustainability and conservation of the region's environment and culture.

ANTARA

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