Indonesian authorities expressed concerns that Bali may be at risk for overcrowding in light of the recent boom in island tourism.

Sandiaga Uno, minister for tourism and creative economies, pointed out the recent anti-tourist protests in Barcelona as an example of what could happen to the island destination if curbs are not set in place.

At a recent press conference in Jakarta, Uno said: “Tourism is one of the economic drivers in Bali, [but] things like those protests should not happen there. If people feel uncomfortable with the presence of tourists, bad excesses emerge.”

Mounting concerns

Concerns raised by numerous tourism leaders and political figures in Bali were what prompted Uno’s statement. In recent months, locals worry that mass tourism could lead to a backlash against foreign travellers.

In recent weeks, foreign tourists were found guilty of  violating immigration laws and breaking local customs in Bali. As a result, more than 130 foreigners were deported from Bali since the beginning of the year and over 300 were deported in 2023.

To curb wrongdoing among tourists, island authorities imposed a 150,000-rupiah (US$10) tourist tax. However, stronger measures may be deemed necessary.