As Bali’s international tourist arrivals surge following the pandemic, new issues have surfaced, particularly concerning foreign visitors. Rather than just enjoying the island’s beauty, some tourists, who only hold tourist visas, are using their stay to run illegal business in Bali, including selling vegetables.
The trend of foreigners engaging in unlawful activities on the island is not new but has become increasingly problematic. These tourists are not only involved in constructing villas but are also stepping into various illegal trades, from real estate brokering to selling produce.
Tjok Bagus Pemayun, Head of Bali’s Tourism Office, has raised concerns about the growing number of foreigners disrupting the island. “Indeed, there are many unruly tourists causing disturbances, such as desecrating sacred sites, committing theft, not paying at convenience stores, reckless driving, and engaging in assaults,” Tjok Bagus stated during the media briefing titled “The Weekly Brief with Sandi Uno” on Monday (August 5, 2024), as reported by CNBC Indonesia.
He elaborated that these foreign tourists are involved in illegal businesses, which include activities such as offering real estate services, modeling, motorbike rentals, running salons, and even selling vegetables.
“There’s a need for vigilant oversight and immediate reporting to authorities regarding these illegal business activities by foreigners. We’ve observed various business operations by foreigners in Bali,” he added.
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According to Bali Police data from January to June 2024, there have been 38 recorded incidents involving foreigners violating the law. The majority of these cases involve traffic offenses, assaults, and fraud.
In response to these challenges, the Bali Provincial Government has established a Tourism Governance Task Force. This task force aims to curb unruly behavior and illegal businesses while promoting high-quality international tourism.
“We have set up the Tourism Governance Task Force, which includes all relevant stakeholders, such as regional organizations and vertical institutions,” Tjok Bagus explained.
The task force comprises provincial and municipal authorities, immigration officials, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, Bali Police, and the Attorney General’s Office.
“We are also actively informing tourists about what is permissible and prohibited in Bali through various channels including social media, mass media, embassies, and consulates,” he continued.
Emphasizing the need for a balanced approach, Tjok Bagus noted, “We must enforce regulations firmly but reasonably, without being overly harsh. We strive to maintain a humane approach in law enforcement.”
The issue of foreigners engaging in illegal business activities has been highlighted previously. In 2023, Bali’s Vice Governor, Tjok Oka Sukawati, known as Cok Ace, pointed out that many foreigners, especially from Russia and Ukraine, turn to illegal business ventures due to economic instability in their home countries. Bali’s appeal, with its comfort, safety, and low cost of living, has made it a hotspot for such activities.
“Among these foreigners are those from Russia and Ukraine. This situation is largely due to the current global instability compared to Bali’s safer, more affordable environment,” Cok Ace noted.
He further revealed, “We need to take decisive action. Reports indicate that many are even selling vegetables, buying from local markets and selling to their acquaintances. This issue remains unaddressed.”
As Bali continues to attract tourists from around the world, the local government is committed to tackling these challenges, including illegal business in Bali, and ensuring that the island remains a safe and enjoyable destination for all.
