GIANYAR, May 22, 2026,WorldWartaGlobal.Id
Bali can’t be lumped in with other regions when it comes to immigration policy. A one-size-fits-all approach risks damaging the island’s nature and culture.
That was the main message at the 63rd Dies Natalis public lecture of Mahendradatta University at The Sukarno Center Tampaksiring, Gianyar, on Friday, May 22, 2026. Vice Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim and DPD RI Senator for Bali Dr. Arya Wedakarna both attended.
The event brought together students, academics, TNI, police, and community leaders in Bali to discuss globalization challenges and immigration dynamics on the island.
Bali Needs Special Treatment
In his presentation titled “The Role of Immigration and Corrections as Pillars of Law Enforcement and Public Service,” Silmy Karim stressed that Bali is a benchmark for national immigration performance.
“Standardizing policy could endanger the preservation of local nature and culture,” he said.
The reason is clear: the proportion of foreign nationals in Bali far exceeds the national average. While foreigners make up less than 1% of Indonesia’s total population, their concentration in Bali is much higher.
To attract quality tourists, the government has applied a _selective policy_. The goal is to bring in high-spending visitors while blocking those who could bring crime, drugs, cultural clashes, or terrorism. Even with stricter rules, Bali’s tourism growth remains strong.
New Tech and Policies Rolled Out
The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections is developing the Foreigner Supervision Application (APOA), which will integrate directly with the National Police, BIN, and the Ministry of Tourism.
Services are also being overhauled. Visa applications can now be paid for from abroad using credit cards, with funds going straight into state coffers.
Silmy also promoted the Global Citizen Indonesia (GCI) policy launched in November 2025. The program makes it easier for the Indonesian diaspora to enter and leave the country without a visa or KITAS, while opening avenues for them to contribute to the national economy and investment.
DPD RI: Protect Local Communities
Dr. Arya Wedakarna praised immigration innovations, especially the rollout of autogates for e-passports in Bali, which have eased airport queues and earned recognition from ASEAN countries.
2026 has also seen progress with added personnel and upgraded immigration offices in Klungkung and Tabanan.
But he cautioned that protecting local communities and infrastructure must be a priority. Wedakarna called for amendments to the Immigration Law as more foreigners settle in Bali like local residents.
Conclusion: Bali Needs Its Own Path
The event concluded that Bali requires a tailored approach to immigration. Urgent steps include strengthening foreigner monitoring through APOA and overhauling visa policy.
Amid globalization pressures, Bali’s younger generation must be ready to compete on home turf. That’s why close synergy between DPD RI, the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, the Bali Provincial Government, and educational institutions is crucial to craft comprehensive policies that protect and empower local communities.
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