Bali, the scenic island in Indonesia renowned for its natural beauty and stunning landscapes, has become a major tourist hotspot, drawing visitors from all over the globe.?
Unfortunately, recent incidents of unruly behavior by tourists have led to decisive action.
This ban applies to foreign and domestic tourists and locals, meaning popular activities like mountain climbing and hiking will no longer be permitted.
This measure aims to address the concerns raised by misbehaving visitors and ensure the preservation of Bali's serene mountainous areas.
''These mountains are sacred and revered. If their sanctity is damaged, it is the same as degrading the sacredness of Bali. This ban is in effect forever and is not only for foreign tourists but also domestic tourists and residents... (except) religious ceremonies or the handling of natural disasters,'' island's governor Wayan Koster told reporters at a news conference on May 3122 mountains are covered by the decision, including Mount Batur and Mount Agung, which are both famous landmarks.?
However, they will still have access to the mountains for religious ceremonies and responding to natural disasters.
It is important to note that the proposed ban must receive approval from the local parliament to become an official law.?
''The issue of banning people from climbing mountains is still being discussed with several regional unit heads in the Bali regional government. When it's finalized, it will be (announced) by the governor of Bali,''?tourism minister Sandiaga Uno told a news conference on Monday.
The news of the ban on mountain activities in Bali has caused distress among local Balinese communities.?These communities have deep-rooted connections with the mountains, as their lives and livelihoods are closely intertwined.?
The implementation of the ban has raised concerns about the potential impact on their sources of income and the region's overall economy.
The restriction makes it difficult for the local Balinese communities to go about their daily lives and run their businesses because they rely heavily on tourism from mountain activities.
Finding a balance between preserving the natural beauty of the mountains and supporting the livelihoods of the local communities will be crucial.
Ongoing discussions and considerations are essential to address the concerns and ensure a sustainable solution that benefits the environment and Bali's people.
''We understand that authorities are going after those who misbehave badly, and we support that. But Wayan Koster has to also look out for us Balinese who work in tourism, and a strict ban will only scare tourists away, which is terrible,'' said a guide named Che, adding that police patrols and fines could be implemented instead.
In April 2023, an Instagram influencer from Russia who shared a nude photo in front of a sacred tree was deported from Bali.
It's important to understand that mountains, trees, and other natural elements hold great religious significance in Balinese Hindu culture, as they are believed to be the abodes of gods.
These incidents highlight the cultural sensitivity and respect required when visiting sacred sites in Bali. The ban on mountain activities aims to protect the sanctity of these natural features and preserve the religious reverence attached to them.
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