Bali Governor Koster Orders Deportation or Legal Action for Tourists Violating Local Laws

Photo: Global Look Press/Carola Frentzen

Bali Island Governor I Wayan Koster announced on April 11 that tourists who violated state law would face deportation or judicial proceedings under Indonesian law.

“We have firmly demanded from the Chief of Police and the regional immigration department that harsh measures be applied against foreign tourists who commit unacceptable acts, and even more so crimes in Bali — either deportation or legal action under Indonesia’s laws, primarily on the island,” he stated.

Koster also urged all visitors to follow local rules and behave respectfully to ensure the island remains safe, calm, and comfortable for everyone.

Additionally, Koster noted that some tourists commit offenses because they arrive with insufficient funds for their entire trip.

On April 10, Koster announced the elimination of “Russian” and “Ukrainian” villages — areas where Russian and Ukrainian diasporas resided on Bali — stating such actions violated cultural policies and regulations. He demanded that the head of Gianyar district and the police chief take immediate action.