DENPASAR — Bali Governor Wayan Koster attended the 2026 Dharma Dewata Immigration Patrol Roll Call held at Puputan Margarana Field, Renon, Denpasar, on Wednesday (April 15). The event marks a strengthened effort to monitor foreign nationals (WNA) while optimizing the contribution of the tourism sector to the region.
Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko stressed that immigration patrols are not merely ceremonial, but a concrete enforcement measure. He stated that patrols will be conducted regularly in strategic locations to prevent and address violations committed by foreign nationals.
“This is a real manifestation of the state’s presence in supervision. We aim to create a preventive effect while ensuring law enforcement is carried out effectively,” he said.
In addition to patrols, the Directorate General of Immigration is also strengthening preventive measures through a community-based program that involves local residents in monitoring the activities of foreign nationals. The initiative is expected to enhance collaboration between authorities and communities in maintaining public order.
Governor Koster highlighted the importance of cross-agency synergy in ensuring Bali remains safe and comfortable as a global tourism destination. He noted that the recent rise in violations involving foreign nationals has become a serious concern for the regional government.
“We highly appreciate the firm actions taken by Immigration. This is crucial to maintaining Bali’s security stability and overall comfort,” Koster said.
Support for Optimizing Foreign Tourist Levy
Beyond enforcement, Koster also emphasized efforts to optimize the foreign tourist levy as part of Bali’s strategic policy framework. He revealed that discussions on the matter have been conducted with the central government.
“Regarding this issue, we have held meetings with the Minister and the Director General. In principle, they strongly support optimizing the foreign tourist levy in Bali Province. We will follow this up based on the agreed framework,” he stated.
According to Koster, optimizing the levy is essential to support sustainable tourism while ensuring direct benefits for local communities, particularly in preserving culture, the environment, and infrastructure.
He added that the Bali Provincial Government will continue strengthening coordination with Immigration and law enforcement agencies. Criminal violations involving foreign nationals will be handled by the police, while administrative violations fall under Immigration authority, including sanctions such as deportation.
Through a combination of stricter supervision and strengthened tourism-related economic policies, Bali aims to maintain a balance between openness to international visitors and the protection of local interests.***
