DENPASAR – Bali Governor Wayan Koster has moved swiftly to coordinate with the central government following the devastating floods that struck Bali last week. Just five days after the disaster, the two-term governor flew to Jakarta on Monday, September 15, 2025, to hold a series of meetings with cabinet ministers.
His first meeting took place at 10:00 a.m. with Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, and Immigration Affairs Yizril Ihsa Mahendra. During the discussion, Governor Koster proposed the optimization of the Foreign Tourist Levy (PWA) through the Immigration system.
Minister Yizril responded positively, expressing full support for the initiative. He assured that his ministry would soon convene a coordination meeting with relevant stakeholders to follow up on Bali’s proposal.
“We came to Jakarta to seek support from the Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, and Immigration Affairs for optimizing the Foreign Tourist Levy through Immigration. He was very supportive and will organize a coordination meeting to follow up,” Koster said on Tuesday (16/9).
Later that day, at 12:00 noon, Governor Koster met with Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture (Menko PMK) Pratikno at his office. The two share a long-standing friendship, dating back to Pratikno’s tenure as State Secretary.
The meeting, described as warm and cordial, followed Pratikno’s recent visit to Denpasar during the CHANDI Summit 2025, when he was welcomed at the governor’s official residence, Jaya Sabha.
During their discussions, Koster requested budget support for the normalization of Tukad Badung, Tukad Unda, and other rivers in Bali affected by the floods.
“Minister Pratikno strongly supported our proposal and welcomed Bali’s initiatives. He also stressed the importance of designing preventive programs to better manage the risks of future floods,” Koster said.
Governor Koster’s relentless efforts reflect his dedication to the people of Bali and sustainable tourism, rooted in the island’s traditions, culture, and local wisdom. His hands-on leadership—personally assisting flood victims day and night alongside joint teams since September 10—has reinforced his reputation among residents as a people-centered leader.***
