Eyewitness – Denpasar
The Directorate General of Immigration officially inaugurated the “Dharma Dewata” Immigration Patrol Task Force for the Bali region on Wednesday (15/04). This inauguration marks a strategic step in intensifying immigration surveillance to maintain stability and security in one of Indonesia’s premier tourist destinations.
The ceremony, held at the Puputan Margarana Niti Mandala Renon Field in Denpasar, was attended by approximately 100 immigration officers comprising the task force. The event was also attended by the Governor of Bali and members of the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda), as well as heads of vertical agencies and regional apparatuses from the Province of Bali.
The Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, emphasized that the formation of the task force in Bali is a testament to the Directorate General’s commitment to ensuring Bali remains safe and conducive for both the local community and international tourists.
”The formation of this Immigration Patrol Task Force is a concrete step to safeguard Bali’s stability and security as Indonesia’s leading tourism destination,” Hendarsam stated.
The name “Dharma Dewata” carries deep philosophical significance: “Dharma” represents goodness or truth, while “Dewata” refers to the Island of Bali. Under this spirit, the Dharma Dewata Task Force will actively conduct patrols in areas identified as high-risk for immigration violations to ensure safe and high-quality tourism.
Beyond tightening surveillance, the task force is designed to provide a quick response to potential violations. Their presence is expected to reduce legal infractions by Foreign Nationals (WNA), enhance public peace of mind, and serve as a direct channel for immigration education in the field. The patrols will specifically target areas with high concentrations of foreign national activities.
This launch also underscores the performance achievements of Bali Immigration in law enforcement. From January 1 to April 12, 2026, Bali Immigration executed 165 deportations and 62 detention actions as part of its administrative enforcement.
”We will continue to intensify surveillance operations through both regional routine patrols and national-scale operations to maintain security stability and bolster public trust in Immigration,” Hendarsam added
Community-Based Surveillance: The PIMPASA Program
During the same event, the Director General also inaugurated the Village Immigration Coaching Officers (PIMPASA) in Bali. This program introduces a more human-centric, community-based surveillance approach through collaboration with village officials and community leaders.
While the Dharma Dewata Task Force handles tactical field operations, PIMPASA serves as the front line for preventive efforts at the village level. Their duties include providing education and collecting preliminary information regarding the presence and activities of foreigners in their respective neighborhoods.
The presence of PIMPASA is expected to strengthen early detection and narrow the space for immigration violations, particularly in areas that may not be reached by routine patrols.
”The synergy between the Dharma Dewata tactical patrols and the PIMPASA regional surveillance is our comprehensive strategy. Bali must remain a welcoming destination for quality tourists, yet remain firm against any violations of law and applicable norms,” Hendarsam concluded
Reporter : Daniel Herry
