Stricter passport checks enforced on foreigners in Bali as local police intensify security measures
In the heart of Indonesia's tourism industry, Bali, a new initiative has been launched to maintain law and order and prevent unruly tourist behaviour. The Bali Immigration Patrol Task Force (Satgas), a 100-strong team of officers, has been deployed across ten of Bali's busiest tourist areas.
The task force, which operates in cooperation with the military, the police, law-and-order agencies, and Bali's customary security officials (pecalang), was established in response to months of complaints from locals about tourist misbehavior. Officers, easily recognisable in navy or black uniforms marked 'Immigration' and equipped with body cameras, have been authorised to stop foreigners anywhere and demand to see passports or stay permits (KITAS).
The new policy, introduced on the orders of President Prabowo Subianto, aims to ensure stability and security in Bali. According to Immigration Minister Agus Andrianto, the initiative is intended to complement the country's efforts to attract tourists, with tourism being crucial for Indonesia. Last year, the country received nearly 14 million foreign tourists, generating US$16.7 billion, which accounts for around 4% of its GDP. Bali alone attracted 6.3 million visitors, which is more than its population of 4.3 million.
However, Chusnunia Chalim, a local expert, warns that these practices risk increasing economic inequality and reducing opportunities for Balinese people in the tourism sector. Ida Bagus Raka Suadarna, a professor of economics and business at the University of National Education in Denpasar, agrees, stating that the task force has special duties and funds, and new efforts will be made to specifically monitor foreign tourists.
The initiative has divided opinion among locals. While some want spot checks extended to indoor spaces, others fear it could deter visitors or make tourists feel anxious. One tourist commented that carrying a passport around is unsafe and unlikely for most tourists. Videos from the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office show officers reprimanding tourists for not carrying passports or permits.
Despite the concerns, no fines have been issued at the time of writing. The task force has been established to address the surge in unruly behaviour, which some attribute to excessive tourism, particularly the post-COVID boom. Foreigners are accused of engaging in illegal business activities on the island, such as subletting flats, running unlicensed guesthouses, and renting villas without permits.
The new policy also includes a tourism levy of IDR 150,000 (€8.50), introduced in February, which the officers are authorised to check whether tourists have paid. As the task force continues its operations, it remains to be seen how it will balance the need for law and order with the importance of tourism to Bali's economy.
