BATAMCLICK.COM: Member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Bane Raja Manalu, has proposed implementing a tourism tax for quality tourists visiting Bali. This step is considered a solution to address over-tourism issues and improve the quality of tourism on the Island of the Gods.
“To overcome over-tourism, a tourism tax can be applied. This tax will not only filter quality tourists but can also be used for promotion, facility improvements, and other needs,” said Bane during the Tourism Bill (RUU Kepariwisataan) committee meeting at the DPR RI building, Jakarta, Thursday (13/3).
However, Bane did not specify the criteria for “quality tourists.” He only highlighted the increasingly crowded condition of Bali, which negatively impacts the environment and society.
According to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), international tourist visits to Bali in 2024 reached 6.3 million, an increase from 5.2 million visits in 2023.
“Over-tourism in Bali has caused various problems such as waste, traffic congestion, and social issues. This is no longer in line with the Tri Hita Karana concept,” emphasized Bane.
Bane also highlighted the construction of Buleleng Airport, which has the potential to attract low-cost carriers. He is concerned that this will worsen Bali’s tourism condition.
“Why should there be an airport for low-cost carriers? This could bring tourists who do not provide significant economic impact,” he added.
Bane hopes the ongoing Tourism Bill will provide a strong legal foundation for implementing tourism tax policies. Thus, it is expected that only quality tourists will visit Indonesia, particularly Bali.
Sumber: Antara
