Bali Tourism Leader Cok Ace Calls for Stricter Rules on Foreign Investment and Tourists
Cok Ace, chairman of Bali's Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) and a member of the Ubud royal family, stated that while foreign presence has been important to Bali's tourism development, stricter selection of investments, monitoring of foreign nationals, and clearer regulations are needed. He emphasized that foreign investment should not displace local businesses and should instead benefit Bali's environment, culture, and residents.
Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardana Sukawati, known as Cok Ace, chairman of Bali's Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) and a member of the Ubud royal family who formerly served as Vice Governor of Bali, has voiced his views on how foreign tourists and investors should be regulated in Bali.
The opinion piece traces the presence of foreigners in Bali back to the 1597 Dutch trading expedition, noting that full colonial control was only achieved after the 1908 Puputan Badung resistance in southern Bali. Cok Ace acknowledges that foreigners have contributed to the development of Bali's arts and tourism sector, but argues that going forward, investment should be selectively directed, foreign nationals should be monitored, and clearer regulations are needed to protect local communities.
He stated that foreign investment should be steered in a way that does not displace local businesses, and should instead contribute to Bali's environment, culture, and the welfare of its residents. He suggested that Bali's tourism future should prioritize quality over quantity, sustainability, culture, and community welfare.
It is important to note that this article represents a policy opinion and commentary from a tourism industry leader, not an announcement of specific new regulations or legal changes at this time.
Things to Consider
Since this is a policy opinion rather than an announcement of concrete new rules, there is no immediate change to visa or investment procedures. However, as regulations on foreign investment, property ownership, and employment in Bali may tighten in the future, those planning investments or long-term stays should regularly check for regulatory updates through local lawyers or licensed agents.
Source: Beritabali.com