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Indonesia’s popular tourist destination Bali is stepping up efforts to address the issue of foreign visitors engaging in prostitution, as authorities aim to promote quality tourism and reduce congestion during the holiday season.
Samuel Toba, Bali's immigration chief, revealed that some foreigners disguise themselves as tourists but engage in illegal activities, using entertainment and massage venues as fronts for sex work. “They came here for vacation but saw opportunities to get involved in prostitution,” Toba said at a recent press briefing. Screening visitors for such intentions has proven challenging, with motives often uncovered only during investigations.
To combat the problem, a dedicated law enforcement team has been tasked with monitoring vice establishments and online platforms. Toba also encouraged local communities to assist by reporting any suspicious activities to immigration officials.
Prostitution is illegal in Indonesia, with offenders facing jail sentences of six months to 12 years under the country’s anti-pornography law. Recent crackdowns highlight Bali’s firm stance on the issue. Last month, an Australian couple operating a spa in Kuta were arrested for facilitating illegal prostitution, and in September, a Russian woman was deported for allegedly offering sexual services from a villa in Seminyak.
Deputy Tourism Minister Ni Luh Puspa emphasized the importance of preserving Balinese culture and customs by focusing on attracting quality tourists. She announced plans to develop infrastructure, including a parking facility in Jatiluwih village, a UNESCO-recognized destination, to ease holiday congestion.
The minister dismissed concerns raised in a travel guide labeling Bali a “plastic apocalypse” due to overtourism and unchecked development. She reassured that Bali remains a premier travel destination and outlined plans to promote lesser-known attractions to divert tourists from overcrowded areas in the island's south.
Between January and August this year, Indonesia welcomed over 9 million foreign visitors, according to the Central Statistics Agency. Bali, as the nation’s tourism crown jewel, continues to grapple with balancing its economic dependence on tourism and the need to address its growing challenges.
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