The implementation of the foreign tourist levy in Bali has been officially enforced as of Wednesday (14/2/2024), starting from 00.00 Central Indonesia Time (WITA). This new measure aims to support tourism development and infrastructure enhancement on the island. To streamline the process, authorities have introduced innovative solutions such as mobile barcode scanners, ensuring efficient and convenient payment processing for visitors.
Cokorda Bagus Pemayun, the Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, emphasized the importance of facilitating arrivals at the international airport.
He stated, “We have deployed staff to conduct scans around the international arrival area, enhancing the overall visitor experience.” This proactive approach underscores Bali’s commitment to providing seamless entry procedures for tourists.
In addition to the efforts of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, support from the Bali Regional Development Bank (BPD) has been instrumental in facilitating levy payments. Collaborative initiatives between government agencies and financial institutions have enabled tourists to settle their dues conveniently, further enhancing the island’s appeal as a tourist destination.
The adoption of digital payment methods, particularly through credit cards and mobile applications like Love Bali, has gained significant traction among foreign tourists.
According to Bank BPD Bali, over 90 percent of levy payments are currently made using credit cards, reflecting the growing preference for cashless transactions in the tourism sector.
Recent data from Bank BPD Bali highlights the effectiveness of the levy implementation, with an average of 3,500 credit card transactions recorded daily from Monday (12/2/2024) to Tuesday (13/2/2024). This demonstrates the robust uptake of the levy system among visitors, contributing to sustainable tourism development in Bali.
Furthermore, the utilization of QRIS barcode technology has expanded payment options for tourists, offering greater flexibility and convenience. This digital infrastructure aligns with Bali’s vision of embracing technology to enhance visitor experiences and support economic growth in the tourism sector.
Despite the successful implementation of the levy system, authorities remain vigilant in addressing potential challenges. Plans to deploy static scanning devices at the international arrival area of the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport were evaluated to ensure optimal efficiency. While static scanners were considered, concerns about potential queues prompted a reevaluation of the strategy to maintain smooth operations at the airport.
To accommodate tourists who have paid the levy but may have missed the scanning process at the airport, alternative solutions have been devised. Visitors can now complete the scanning procedure through designated facilities such as hotels, travel agencies, and tourist attractions, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while minimizing inconvenience for travelers.
In summary, the introduction of the foreign tourist levy in Bali represents a strategic initiative to support sustainable tourism development and enhance visitor experiences. Through collaborative efforts between government agencies, financial institutions, and tourism stakeholders, Bali aims to uphold its reputation as a premier tourist destination while prioritizing visitor safety and convenience.
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