EYEWITNESS NEWS – BADUNG
27.October.2026
Bali Governor Wayan Koster emphasized that the island’s openness to international visitors must be balanced with strict law enforcement and respect for local traditions.
The statement was made during a press conference on foreign national surveillance operations at the Ngurah Rai Class I Special Immigration Office on October 26, 2026.
Governor Koster strongly condemned an explicit sex video involving two French nationals by EMC and JPS, produced at a local accommodation in Karangasem, calling it a violation of cultural values and public decency. He noted that formal letters have been sent to the French Embassy and Consulate General to prevent similar incidents.
While acknowledging tourism as the economic backbone of Bali, Koster stressed that economic growth should not compromise local ethics or state sovereignty. To strengthen oversight, the Bali Immigration Office is planned to be integrated into the Regional Leadership Communication Forum (Forkopimda) Plus starting in 2027.
Meanwhile, Bali Immigration Office Head Ramdhani reported two major ongoing cases: an investigation into the French nationals behind the explicit video, and the detention of 17 Malaysian and Singaporean nationals in North Kuta for misusing stay permits to run illegal online lending operations.
Immigration authorities confirmed that the offenders face administrative deportation under the Immigration Law as part of ongoing efforts to protect Bali’s cultural tourism image.
Reporter: Daniel Herry
