Bali Deputy Governor Hopes International Tourism Will Stay Open Next July

Deputy Governor of Bali Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati (Bali Provincial Government DOK)

DENPASAR - Deputy Governor of Bali, Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati or Cok Ace, explained the readiness of an open international border or the door of Bali's international tourism by referring to its supporting indicators.

"The government's readiness, public health readiness, and tourism support facilities are very good. Moreover, talking about the Balinese people's obedience to the health program is extraordinary", said Cok Ace, in a written statement to reporters in Denpasar, Bali, Wednesday, June 23.

Cok Ace also stated that from a health perspective, Bali showed maximum progress for the vaccination program.

"From the target of 70 percent of vaccinations for 4 million Balinese people, more than 50 percent have received (vaccines)", he added.

He said, for the public health protocol, Bali is in the number one position nationally for the discipline of wearing masks. In addition, the vaccination program has shown a promising good effect for Bali where in the last few months the positive number has been in double digits.

"There are a few positive numbers, few deaths. Bali's readiness is also shown by 1000 hotels and tourism facilities already having CHSE (Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environment) standards and in the future, 1000 more are targeted", he said.

Cok Ace also said that three areas had been systematically designed as green areas, namely Ubud, Nusa Dua, and Sanur. "We have prepared a pattern for tourists from arriving, quarantine, and being allowed to go to the green area until they return to their country", he said.

Bali had planned to open tourism since September last year. Due to conditions on the ground related to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was finally rescheduled to open next July.

"We all really hope this July (opens). Even though it's not one hundred percent like it used to be, there are several patterns that we can try. There is a travel bubble that allows tourists between countries or between provinces, there is an essential traveler pattern, a free COVID-19 corridor, many are We can use it", he said.

"If it is possible, at least this July we hope there will be no delays. Even if there will be an 'open and close' system, it can still be done if the case is still dynamic. However, in the last few months, the conditions for controlling the pandemic are very good and I assure you of our readiness in Bali", continued Cok Ace.

In addition, according to him, of course, it does not only need Bali's readiness but external factors such as the condition of the country of origin of tourists, as well as the views of the central government which of course need considerations that need to be considered together.

"Bali has opened the door of wisdom. The trend to come to Bali continues to increase and we will try to maintain the safety and health of friends who travel to Bali", said Cok Ace.