Bali Gears Up for Upcoming Governor Elections Amidst Key Issues
With the governor elections in Bali set for November 27, candidates are making their platforms known to the Balinese populace, focusing on critical topics including tourism, waste management, and traffic congestion.
Candidates in the Spotlight
The two prominent candidates in the election are Wayan Koster, who has previously served as Bali’s Governor, and Made Muliawan Arya. Koster has announced that if elected, I Nyoman Giri Prasta, the current Regent of Badung, will be his Deputy Governor. Conversely, Arya’s running mate is Putu Agus Suradnyana.
An election event titled “Where Should Bali Tourism Be Taken,” organized by the Association of the Indonesian Tourism Industry, served as a platform for these candidates to elucidate their respective plans for growth and solutions to ongoing issues.
Tourism and Traffic: Key Concerns
Bali’s tourism sector has been overshadowed by persistent problems such as traffic congestion and waste management. At the event, questions were raised about how to alleviate the severe traffic jams that besiege the island, which has over 5 million motorized vehicles—4.3 million of which are motorcycles—outnumbering the local population.
A representative from the Land Transportation Agency pressed Arya about the possibility of imposing a ban on motorcycle purchases to reduce congestion. Arya responded firmly, stating that such a ban would be "constitutionally questionable," but emphasized the need for improvements to pedestrian-friendliness and enhanced public transportation services in key tourist areas like Kuta, Canggu, and Ubud.
His running mate, Suradnyana, suggested a multifaceted approach, proposing long- and short-term solutions such as creating underpasses in congested locations and developing multi-story parking facilities. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of diversifying tourism by promoting destinations in Northern Badung to alleviate pressure in South Badung.
Mandatory Tourist Insurance: A Growing Concern
A burning issue impacting Bali’s travel and tourism scene is the lack of insurance coverage among visitors, leaving many tourists unable to pay medical bills when hospitalized. The Indonesian Recreation Park Business Association (PUTRI) proposed introducing mandatory insurance for all tourists, similar to measures implemented in other global tourist hotspots like Zanzibar.
Arya acknowledged the current guidelines encouraging tourist insurance but conceded that more robust measures need to be taken to ensure travelers are adequately protected.
Cultural Respect and Preservation
During the event, cultural sensitivity was a major theme, particularly in response to recent incidents where local religious ceremonies were disrupted by tourist activities, such as fireworks displays. In addressing this concern, Koster proposed implementing regulations that would prioritize public access and cultural preservation over private investment interests.
He underlined the importance of safeguarding Bali’s coastlines and pledged to restore significant cultural landmarks, notably the Pura Besakih temple, also referred to as the Mother Temple, stating, “We will restore Besakih Temple because many shrines have been severely damaged.”
Koster also revisited initiatives from his previous term, specifically mentioning the development of a cultural and tourism center in Klungkung, asserting its potential to attract both domestic and international tourists.
Engaging the Community
As the elections draw nearer, the Balinese community is encouraged to engage in these discussions, reflecting on the candidates’ commitments to resolving the pressing challenges facing the island. Voters are reminded of the importance of their voices and participation in this democratic process.
What are your thoughts on the candidates’ proposals and their impact on Bali’s future? Share your insights in the comments section below.
