Bali Governor says no more foreigners-only clubs on the island

Bali Governor Wayan Koster announced on Tuesday that there are no longer any foreigners-only clubs operating on the island, following regulatory actions taken against the "Entourage Run" club in Canggu, Badung District. The club, which had been accused of excluding Indonesian participants, faced scrutiny from both local authorities and national immigration officials. Koster made the remarks after a meeting of Bali’s Regional Leadership Coordination Forum, emphasizing that such exclusive spaces have effectively disappeared from the island. The governor addressed concerns raised by the public regarding the alleged discrimination practiced by the Entourage Run club. He specifically refuted claims that the club’s "Silent Disco" event excluded Indonesians, stating that attendees included locals. This response came amid growing attention on the issue, particularly after Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration took legal measures against two Dutch nationals responsible for organizing the club. The immigration authority had previously described the Entourage Run as functioning like a “state within a state,” violating regulations by hosting events without proper permits. According to Hendarsam Marantoko, director general of immigration, the club operated under conditions that undermined national laws and created a segregated space for foreigners. The enforcement action followed complaints from Indonesian citizens who felt marginalized by the club’s policies. Koster reiterated that Bali continues to be a premier destination for international tourists, despite recent controversies. He urged the public to rely on accurate information rather than sensationalized reports circulating on social media. The governor also encouraged other running groups in Bali to continue their activities, provided they did not disrupt local communities. The closure of the Entourage Run club follows a broader crackdown on entities perceived as creating exclusive environments for foreigners. Earlier this year, similar actions were taken against the so-called “Russian village” in Bali, another area reportedly frequented primarily by expatriates. Koster suggested these instances represented a shift in policy aimed at ensuring inclusivity and compliance with local laws. Authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to tourism while upholding national regulations. The provincial government has committed to fostering an environment that supports both local residents and visitors. This includes ensuring that all activities conducted on the island align with legal requirements and promote social harmony. In addition to addressing the issue of exclusive clubs, Bali’s leadership has focused on reinforcing the island’s reputation as a safe and welcoming place for travelers. Recent incidents involving foreign nationals have prompted discussions on how to manage interactions between different communities. However, Koster maintained that Bali remains a model of stability and prosperity, attracting millions of visitors annually. Local officials have also called for continued collaboration between government bodies and private organizations to address emerging challenges. This includes monitoring events and activities that could potentially lead to segregation or conflict. By working together, authorities aim to preserve Bali’s unique cultural identity while ensuring that all individuals, regardless of nationality, can participate fully in the island’s vibrant social fabric. The situation highlights the ongoing effort to balance economic interests with social equity. As Bali continues to grow as a global tourist hub, the need for inclusive policies becomes increasingly critical. Local leaders remain committed to enforcing regulations that protect both the rights of Indonesian citizens and the interests of international visitors.