Bali Tourism Association has expressed their disappointment as the central government’s plan to reopen the border for international visitors is predicted to fail.
The Head of the Karangasem Hotel and Restaurants Association, I Wayan Kariasa said that the majority of accommodation businesses in Karangasem were disappointed with the plan from the central government to postpone the travel arrangement program in July 2021 due to the surge of Covid-19 cases in several areas in Indonesia such as Jakarta and Central Java.
The Tourism Minister, Sandiaga Uno has recently stated that the plan to reopen Bali’s border to international visitors is predicted to be postponed until the third quarter of 2021 when Covid-19 transmissions are properly handled. Apparently, this statement garnered many disappointments, especially by the tourism sector in Karangasem as they have already prepared their businesses with all the requirements to welcome back international tourists. “We’re so disappointed with that statement, especially with all our efforts and money that has been spent during the preparation stage before welcoming the tourists back.” Kariasa said.
He also said that many of the businesses have lost their trust in the central government and urged them to continue the reopening plan. “I propose the regional and provincial government in Bali to urge the central government to keep the reopening plan on track, as most of Bali regions including Karangasem are now ready to receive tourists with all the prevention protocols in place.” Kariasa concluded. He also explained the importance of continuing the plan of both international travel arrangement and Work From Bali (WFB) program, so Bali’s economy can be revived from the Covid crisis as all of Bali regions were confirmed free from being considered a red zone area of Covid-19 transmission.
