After a long seven-year silence, Akasaka Bali, Denpasar’s largest nightclub, is poised to reopen its doors, creating a buzz among Bali’s nightlife enthusiasts. The club, which had been shut down by the Bali Police in 2017, will welcome back patrons on the symbolic date of July 7, 2024.
This highly anticipated reopening date was strategically chosen by Akasaka’s management, marking a fresh chapter for the club following its closure due to severe drug trafficking issues. The club was originally closed on June 6, 2017, by then Bali Police Chief Inspector General Petrus Reinald Golose, following significant drug-related incidents.
The news of Akasaka Bali that reopen after 7 years has not only excited the nightlife crowd but also caught the attention of the broader public due to the club’s controversial past. With seven years of inactivity and police seals marking its closure, the return of Akasaka Bali raises both anticipation and concern.
Acting Governor of Bali, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, made it clear that the reopening permit for Akasaka Bali did not come from the Bali Provincial Government.
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“The permit is not from the provincial government. Any activities that potentially cause disturbances will be monitored by local authorities and security forces,” he stated. He emphasized that stringent monitoring would be in place to prevent any recurrence of past issues.
Agus Wirajaya, a member of the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) from the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), discussed the dual aspects of Akasaka’s reopening. He highlighted both the positive and negative potential impacts, stressing the need for comprehensive oversight.
“Entertainment venues like Akasaka serve as vital recreational spots that support tourism,” Agus explained. “There are many benefits for regions that establish such facilities, including job creation, growth in the food and beverage supply sector, and increased tax revenue for local governments.”
However, Agus also acknowledged the negative aspects that need attention. “Among these are disturbances caused by intoxicated patrons, drug trafficking—which led to Akasaka’s initial closure—and the risk of prostitution,” he added.
The reopening of Akasaka Bali represents not just a return of a popular nightlife destination but also a test of regulatory and security measures. With the implementation of strict oversight and cooperation between local authorities and security forces, the aim is to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons. The reopening promises to inject new life into Bali’s nightlife scene while addressing the challenges of its controversial history.
