Governor of Bali I Wayan Koster has confirmed that he declined a proposal to allow the construction of a casino on the island. According to Koster, he was approached with an offer valued at Rp100 trillion in exchange for permission to develop such facilities in Bali.
“I was lured (promised something persuasive), if there is a casino in Bali, you can immediately get Rp100 trillion,” said Koster at the launch of foreign tourist levy cooperation in Denpasar.
The Governor stated that the offer was not considered, as it conflicted with Bali’s long-standing commitment to cultural values in its tourism model. He emphasized that casino development is not aligned with the province’s vision for sustainable tourism.
“So therefore, Bali must be firm and principled. Don’t be easily seduced, make this, make that. We just stick to the culture. Because there is no rival about culture,” said Koster, while giving directions at the Ksirarnawa Building, UPTD. Bali Provincial Cultural Park, Friday (15/8).
Cultural Tourism Remains Priority
Koster explained that Bali’s economic foundation remains rooted in its cultural heritage. At present, approximately 60 percent of Bali’s economy is supported by the tourism sector, which has long been recognized globally for its cultural attractions.
He stressed that maintaining cultural tourism is essential to ensuring the resilience of the island’s economy. According to Koster, Bali represents a unique example of culture-based tourism that cannot be found elsewhere in the world.
Clear Warning Against Casino Plans
In his remarks, Koster also reminded stakeholders not to entertain any plans or thoughts of introducing casinos in Bali. He underlined that the island’s identity and economic model are incompatible with gambling-based developments.
“Don’t have any thoughts of creating a casino in Bali. It means that we are competing with other countries regarding casinos. I was dreaming, ‘sir, if there is a casino in Bali, you can immediately get Rp 100 trillion’,” he said.
“The figure is indeed good Rp100 trillion. But once we take the wrong step, we erode Balinese culture, leaving our cultural base for tourism. We can lose more than Rp100 trillion and will threaten the future of Bali,” he explained.
The Governor pointed out that the uniqueness of Bali lies in its cultural traditions, religious ceremonies, and artistic expressions, which form the foundation of its tourism appeal. Any deviation from this path, he noted, would undermine the strengths that make the island distinct in the global tourism industry.
Consistent Policy Position
The rejection of the casino proposal reflects a consistent policy position by the provincial government. Koster reiterated that Bali will continue to prioritize policies that strengthen cultural tourism and safeguard its role as the main driver of the local economy.
He added that protecting the cultural identity of Bali remains central to the government’s strategy, ensuring that tourism growth aligns with traditions that have been preserved for generations.
“Bali culture is the only one in the world. So if that’s the case, there is no rival. So we will continue to seize opportunities related to culture-based tourism, just that’s it. So if it is in the future, no one should ever waver. Regarding this culture, once we take a wrong step, it is very dangerous for the future of Bali,” he said.
