Badung (ANTARA)– Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia (Menparekraf RI) Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno stated that the IDR 150,000 fee for foreign tourists (foreigners) entering Bali aims to support nature conservation.

“Please be patient, the Bali Provincial Government will continue to coordinate with our task force because this is for conservation. The initial idea is to promote environmental sustainability, preservation of customs, and local wisdom, and it will still work,” said Sandiaga after opening the International Tourism Investment Forum (ITIF) 2023 in Badung, Bali, on Wednesday.

Sandiaga explained that the IDR 150,000 or 10 dollars fee set by the Bali Provincial Government is expected to be not an additional new cost but a contribution to the preservation of the environment for the years to come so that Bali’s tourism ecosystem remains protected.

Regarding concerns that such a policy might reduce the interest of foreign tourists, Sandiaga emphasized that it is not a significant obstacle. He even mentioned that tourists support Bali in maintaining its cultural heritage and environment. It all depends on how the policy in the tourism sector is perceived.

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To achieve this goal, substantial funds and collaborative efforts from all parties are needed. Sandiaga stated that the government will continue to monitor the implementation of the fee agenda, including the ongoing process.

“All tourists want Bali to be preserved; they want Bali to remain beautiful, with well-managed waste, preserved coral reefs, and healthy mangroves. This requires funding, and this funding will be used through the ongoing initiative, which is still in the early stages and will later be discussed and socialized, including the necessary regulations,” he said.

Menparekraf expressed pride that nearly 50 percent of tourists visit Bali, and its growth continues to strengthen, acknowledged by the world, and hopes that it will extend to other regions.

He emphasized that Bali is rightfully offering contributions from foreign tourists for sustainability and the conservation of nature and culture but with great care.

“We are very cautious in determining additional costs. Bali has gone through a process to be in a position to offer contributions for conservation,” he said.

Echoing the statement of Menparekraf RI, Vice Governor of Bali Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardana Sukawati (Cok Ace) said that the IDR 150,000 fee for foreigners is for the future sustainability of tourism in Bali.

“I think what Minister Sandiaga conveyed is clear; whether it is expensive or affordable depends on the narrative we build. This fee is intended for the environment and culture that tourists themselves seek. That’s why we need significant funding,” said Cok Ace.

He mentioned that if the narrative is for conservation, there would be no rejection from foreign tourists, and it would not affect foreign tourist visits to Bali.