Indonesia is considering introducing a tax for tourists due to a series of incidents involving tourists behaving badly and breaking local customs. The tourism and creative economy minister, Sandiaga Uno, has confirmed that the government is currently studying the possibility of imposing a tourism tax. This move comes after residents became increasingly frustrated with disrespectful and illegal behavior by tourists. Examples of such behavior include posing naked at sacred sites and driving recklessly without a helmet or license.
The new tax has received support from some, including Coordinating Maritime Affairs and Investment Minister Luhut Pandjaitan, who believes that it will help to uphold cultural values and traditions. However, others fear that it will discourage people from visiting the country and harm the tourism sector, which is still recovering from the pandemic.
Bali is a popular tourist destination known for its surfing spots, rice terraces, and nightlife. The island drew 6.2 million foreign visitors a year before the Covid pandemic, and tourism was estimated to contribute about 60 percent of the island’s economy.
In conclusion, the Indonesian government is considering imposing a tourism tax due to incidents involving tourists behaving badly and breaking local customs. The move has received mixed reactions, with some supporting it to uphold cultural values and others fearing that it will harm the tourism sector. Bali is a popular tourist destination that drew 6.2 million foreign visitors a year before the pandemic.
