Indonesia has taken a significant step to safeguard Bali's natural beauty and cultural richness by temporarily halting the construction of new hotels, villas, and nightclubs in specific tourist areas. This crucial move aims to prevent overtourism, over-development, protect the environment, and preserve the island's cultural heritage. It reflects a proactive effort to address concerns about the impact of land development on Bali's environment and artistic integrity.
There have been concerns regarding the detrimental effects of unchecked development on the natural landscape and commercial interests in Bali for a while. As the island continues to attract many tourists, the mounting pressure to expand infrastructure has sparked fears that the island's distinct allure and natural splendour may be compromised.
The recent decision is part of a broader governmental initiative to restructure tourism in Bali. The central objective is to enhance the quality of tourism on the island and create more employment opportunities. It also seeks to safeguard Bali's indigenous culture, which is increasingly threatened due to rapid commercialization and uncontrolled construction. The moratorium serves as a critical step in addressing these multifaceted challenges in a comprehensive and sustainable manner.
Hermin Esti, a distinguished senior official from Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry of Maritime and Investment Affairs, has confirmed that the government has agreed on the moratorium. The duration of the suspension is currently the subject of ongoing deliberations, as the government is carefully considering the region's long-term needs before finalising the decision.
It is reported that Bali's acting governor, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, took decisive action on September 7th by proposing suspending construction activities. This proposal, specifically targeting four of Bali's busiest districts, addresses the pressing issue of overdevelopment for commercial purposes.
In early 2024, Bali implemented the International Tourism Levy, a mandatory fee for incoming foreigners. This fee, around USD 10, is intended to help preserve Bali's unique cultural heritage and support sustainable tourism. International tourists visiting Bali have to pay this one-time tax and are encouraged to do so in advance through the Love Bali website or app. After paying, tourists will receive a tourism levy voucher via email, which they must keep on their smartphones to scan at Bali International Airport and sea port checkpoints.
All across the world, countries have been implementing measures to combat the effects of overtourism on natural landscapes and built heritage. UNESCO, the United Nations' cultural body, recently stated that Venice should be included in a list of endangered world heritage sites. as the city is at risk of "irreversible" harm from overtourism, overdevelopment, and increasing sea levels. Italy has said it will fine all unruly tourists. Greece will limit the number of tourists visiting the Acropolis. And Japan will restrict access to Mt Fuji. The list goes on. Tourism, it seems, needs to be reigned in everywhere.