Jakarta. Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Wishnutama Kusubandio said rebuilding tourist confidence will be key for Bali – Indonesia’s number one tourist island – to recover its economy to pre-pandemic levels.
The minister said on Wednesday during a two-day visit to the Island of the Gods that he appreciated the provincial government’s recent effort to plan phased reopening of the island starting from July.
“Public trust must be earned by preparing and implementing strict health protocols according to new normal guidelines before reopening the tourism sector,” Wishnutama said after a meeting with Bali Governor Wayan Koster in Ubud, Gianyar, on Wednesday.
The minister inspected several popular tourist destinations while on the island, such as Nusa Dua, Tirta Empul Temple and Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.
Wishnutama gave his support to the Bali provincial government to prepare the three stages needed to reopen the island for business.
“Local governments must prepare thoroughly before reopening the tourism and creative economy sectors. There’s no need to rush. Tourism is highly dependent on tourists’ trust in security and comfort on the island,” he said.
The Bali governor said the provincial government has already prepared the three stages for implementing the new normal health protocol.
“If everything goes according to plan, on July 9 we will start the first stage of reopening several sectors except education and tourism,” Koster said.
In the second stage beginning in August, the island will start welcoming domestic tourists. But this will only happen if the first stage was an unqualified success.
In the third stage in September, Bali will reopen its borders to international tourists.
Koster stressed this is still a plan not a set timeline for implementation.
“Whether or not it will happen will greatly depend on our discipline to implement the health protocol and how local transmissions of Covid-19 in Bali are developing,” he said.
The governor said there had been an increase in Covid-19 cases in Bali recently, especially in Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar and Klungkung.
On Wednesday, Bali reported 30 new confirmed Covid-19 cases, bringing the island’s total to 829.
“We’ve sent a special team to the areas where there’s been an increase in Covid-19 cases. We will make sure there are no more new cases before relaxing more social restrictions,” Koster said.
The governor also said that according to various surveys, Bali has been ranked among the top tourist destinations in the world that tourists want to revisit once the pandemic is over.
A survey conducted by the Indonesian Online booking platform, Pegipegi.com, is providing insights on how the domestic market will come back to life once government travel restrictions are lifted, borders reopened, and airlines recommence full schedules.
As reported by Kompas.com, a Pegipegi.com survey of 900 respondents who replied between 08 June and 12 June 2020 showed the 67% of the Indonesians responding said they were prepared to travel in the “new normal.” The remaining 33% said they had no current plans to travel.
Pegipegi’s chief marketing officer, Serlina Wijaya, said: “We understand that Indonesian society has been trying their best to stay at home and avoid traveling for safety and health reasons. In the new normal transition period, we see an uptick in the number of people ready to travel.”
Among the respondents saying they were ready to travel again, 73% indicated they would travel within the first two months of the start of the “new normal.” The reasons these people gave for travel are family reasons (33%) and simply for a change of scenery (26%). Others who said they would fly within the first two months of the lifting of travel restrictions gave business and education as reasons.
“We understand that Indonesian society has been trying their best to stay at home and avoid traveling for safety and health reasons. In the new normal transition period, we see an uptick in the number of people ready to travel.”
Those traveling with a partner or on a solo basis represented 31% of the respondents prepared to fly. Meanwhile, 28% said they would fly as part of an extended family. 9% of the total respondents said they would be traveling with friends.
Touching on the area of consumer behavior, the Pegipegi survey revealed that 47% of Indonesian travelers said price was the deciding factor in making any travel plans. 29% listed the destination’s cleanliness as influencing their decision to travel, while 18% listed liberal refund policies as important.
It appears that “new normal travelers” will be acutely aware of COVID-19 related health and safety protocols when making future travel plans.
Bumbu Bali – the award-winning home of genuine Balinese cuisine was founded in 1996 when the Swiss-born founder-owner, Heinz von Holzen, took his admiration of Balinese cuisine, which had already resulted in a popular Balinese cookbook, and decided to open a restaurant dedicated to the Island’s cuisine.
Heinz working together with his Balinese wife, Puji, Bumbu Bali Restaurant opened its doors on Jalan Pratama on the Tanjung Benoa Peninsula, next door to Nusa Dua.
Bumbu Bali’s open design affording visitors a chance to look at a working Balinese kitchen or “Paon”; the use only the finest, freshest ingredients; and an unwavering commitment to authenticity in its presentation of Balinese food quickly brought sustained success. Such was the craze for Balinese food generated by Bumbu Bali that within six months of its opening, an affiliated Cooking School also secured great success via a formula of traditional market visits and sharing the foundation spices or “base” (pronounce “ba-say”) – use in all Balinese cooking.
A short while later, a second Bumbu Bali was opened several hundred meters down to road to handle the overflow demand from diners for lunch and dinner, and for a place in one of the daily cooking classes.
Art Cafe Bumbu Bali
Over the intervening years, Heinz produced a small library of beautiful cookbooks with titles such as “The Food of Bali,” “Bali Unveiled: The Secrets of Balinese Cuisine,” “Feast of Flavors from the Balinese Kitchen,” and “Street Food of Bali.” Each book is carefully presented in a way to be understandable and practical for the creation of memorable Balinese cuisine in home kitchens far removed from the Island of Bali. As pleasing on the palate as they are on the eye, Heinz von Holzen wrote the recipes and professionally photographed each mouth-watering dish included in his best-selling series.
In 2019, with the lease ending on the original Bumbu Bali Restaurant on Jalan Pratama, a decision was made to open the new concept Art Cafe Bumbu Bali on Jalan Siligita No.101, across from the Surya Husada Hospital located on the north border of the Nusa Dua Complex. Offering open-air or air-conditioned seating, the Art Café Bumbu Bali has a distinctive Balinese vibe. It provides views of Nusa Dua and South Bali from its naturally elevated hillside location.
During the island-wide business-slowdown caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic, Heinz and Puji von Holzen used the business slump as the perfect opportunity to remodel and refurbish the remaining Bumbu Bali location on Jalan Pratama. Master Architect Walter Wagner from Habitat was employed to redesign Bumbu Bali. The brief provided by Heinz and Puji required that a traditional and timeless Balinese ambient be at the core of any redesign. Old style roofs, red brick walls, hand-carved Balinese wood finishes, and an art collection reflecting every corner of the Island also became part of the “new” Bumbu Bali.
The planning and design of the refurbishment took place between October and December 2019. According to schedule, the Restaurant closed for renovations on 13 January 2019 as a team of talented artisans descended on the site to transform the space. The renovation became more a rebuilding with two new pavilions added to the building, luxurious bathrooms installed, and two modern kitchens built to the highest specifications inaugurated. The six-month reconstruction ended on 05 June 2021.
Unlike the building of the first Bumbu Bali in 1996, Heinz and Puji had a talented assistant to lend a hand in bringing the new Bumbu Bali to fruition. Puji’s and Heinz’s son, Putu Fabian von Holzen, personally supervised the entire new building project.
Project Director – Putu Fabian von Holzen
Temple Ceremony
With the physical construction at an end and in keeping with local traditions to seek God’s and the Cosmos’ blessing on every human endeavor, an elaborate series of ceremonies were prepared to seek the spirits’ blessings and permission of those who “possess” the land where the building stands. Ratu and his Ibu Jero from the Grya Natuna in Denpasar prepared a beautiful blessing ceremony and offerings, the essence of which is surrendered to the gods.
With the blessing of the Gods in hand and, following protocols provided by the Government of Bali, the “new” Bumbu Bali reopens for business on Thursday, 02 July 2020, with an initial offering of a limited a la carte menu featuring many of Bumbu Bali’s Signature Dishes and, of course, the daily Balinese Cooking Class.
Bumbu Bali Restaurant and Art Café Bumbu Bali are open for lunch from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm and for dinner 6:00 pm until 11:00 pm (last order at 10:00 pm).
Signature dishes: Balinese Rijsttafel, vegetarian dishes, sates, sate lilit, pork ribs, roast duck in banana leaf, and babi guling.
The weavers of Bali are dusting off their looms in a small traditional village just outside Ubud. In Pejeng Kangin, a long-forgotten artisan craft is coming back.
This is just one of three recent village initiatives. It all started when David Metcalf, a local expat originally from New Zealand, went to his Banjar (local village council) and asked what he could do to help during the COVID-19 crisis. The village leader, Made Astawa, and David agreed on some early priorities, and David sprung into action. He teamed up with part-time resident, Suzan Badgley from Canada, to set up a fund to help out. They sought donations from a wider circle of friends who love Bali plus business colleagues, and the word spread.
Pejeng Kangin Ikat Weaving – by David Metcalf
Weaving
Made identified employment creation as a first priority. David had heard a story some time back that one of the weavers of Pejeng Kangin used to make handwoven silk and cotton brocade for the daughter of Suharto (President of Indonesia 1967-1998).
He went on a hunt and did indeed meet the master weaver, Ibu Agung, and also discovered Ibu Klemik and Apel Murtini. It turns out there was not just one, but three very gifted and talented weavers in the village. There was agreement that the women would share their weaving skills and knowledge with other women in the village and teaching would commence that week. Those old looms reappeared from hidden corners and saw the light of day, yet again.
Pejeng Kangin Ikat Weaving – by David Metcalf
Once the word went out, a number of local women immediately showed an interest. With the help of the donations, extra looms were acquired, and the women bought cotton and silk thread at the Klungkung Markets. Just two weeks later, Pejeng Kangin had re-established its ikat cottage industry. Twelve women are now clacking away on their looms in the village six days a week.
Ibu Putu was already heading up the village Women’s Rice Community (KWT Manik Mertasari) but happily took on the new role of chief of the weaving circle. She came up with a novel idea. If you want an ikat, you are asked to ‘pay it forward’ at the time of ordering so the weavers can buy the materials they need to get started. Ibu Putu can send you photos, and videos as your ikat progresses. Once completed, your ikat, perhaps a table runner, sarong, shawl or wall hanging can be shipped to you. Better still, when Bali opens for tourism, you can come directly to the village and meet the weavers in person and collect it.
Pejeng Kangin Ikat Weaving – by David Metcalf
Balinese woman have always been resourceful and creative in difficult times. Ibu Putu, for example, also had a thriving cooking school called Ubud Village Plate which linked tourists with local families. That business is on hold for now, but it seems she can put her hand to anything. She is clearly relishing her work with the weaving circle. As she explained, “We all think it’s important to keep the weaving tradition alive. But, more than that, we really need jobs. Our husbands are out of work. Most of them were drivers or hotel workers or worked in cafes and restaurants. We must step up to the mark now.”
Local Food Packages
The next issue Made and David decided to tackle was food. Almost every family in the village, 180 in all, has close to no income and there is an urgent need for food staples.
Donations to date have enabled the purchase of supplies, and the Banjar delivered 170 packs with rice, noodles, cooking oil and eggs to every household last week. Twenty local volunteers went out on foot with a list, every home that needed help was ticked off, and no one was left out. “That is very important,” said Made, “If we give to one, we give to all. We live by adat (traditional) law, and this is our way”.
Outreach Packages
Working with Scholars for Sustenance, the village has also now employed 85 people as cooks. They make up a hundred fresh food packs every day. These are hand-delivered to Indonesians living in difficult circumstances in makeshift shacks and kos (boarding) accommodation, or on the streets in Kuta and Denpasar. Many lost their jobs in the tourism or construction industries and have no means of renting decent housing with a kitchen where they can cook. In fact, they cannot even afford one nourishing meal a day and have run out of savings, with the average worker only having had two weeks savings in reserve.
Many of these workers are from Java, Sumba, Flores, Papua and other islands but cannot get back to their villages. They rely on community projects like the one based in Pejeng Kangin, which in turn also benefits the village. Produce for the food packages is provided by local farmers, local cooks prepare the daily food packages, and local drivers help to deliver them to people in need.
How can you help?
To date, IDR 73 million (USD 5,200) has been raised for the village fund, and this has helped kick start these successful village initiatives. However, the Indonesian Government recently announced (Jakarta Post, May16, 2020) that Bali would not re-open for tourism until October. With over 1 million out of work in the island’s tourist industry and at least four months to go before the economy looks up, problems are expected to continue.
If you can, please give just a little (or a substantial amount if you have the means) and join the 67 current donors and kind souls who have helped with early donations. Ongoing funding is required so food deliveries can continue. The weavers also need orders. Please consider pre-ordering your beautiful hand-crafted ikat. You can be part of the solution and, by re-establishing a cottage industry with such strong cultural significance in the village these benefits will live well beyond the life of the pandemic. 100% of the donations go to these Banjar-led initiatives.
David, who is a local professional photographer, goes out to the village daily and documents the different stages (photos and video) of all three initiatives to keep the donors up to date and ensure accountability.
David commented, “I believe there is always a way to turn a negative into a positive and, with all the negative news about COVID, which can really drag people down, this is a great example of embracing a positive attitude and a win-win solution. When Balinese and non-Balinese work together, amazing results can be achieved.”.
Weaving orders: Order your scarf, sarong, table runner, ikat, wall hanging or bed runner with Wayan Ellen and Putu at – info@davidmetcalfphotography.com | WA +62 817 4773 619 Wayan Ellen
To limit the flow of fake or hoax news in connection with the COVID-19 Pandemic in Indonesia, the Ministry of Tourism and the Creative Economy has established an Integrated Crisis Communication Center.
Explained by the national spokesperson for the Ministry’s COVID-19 Task Force, Ari Juliano Gemea, said: “We have activated the crisis communications center since 17 March 2020 that follows standard operating procedures based on input from professional crisis managers and communication experts collected during 2018-2019.”
The Tourism Ministry has also established several channels of public communication and social media dealing exclusively with COVID-19 related matters, including:
COVID-19 Contact Center Telephone WhatsApp: +62-(0)8118956767 (Attended during Indonesian Business Hours).
The Minister of Tourism and the Creative Economy, Wishnutama Kusubandi, published a circular memorandum (Nomor 2 Tahun 2020 Tentang Tindak Lanjut Imbauan Pencegaham Penyebaran Corona Virus Disease 2019) on 31 March 2020 directing the following steps be taken:
Government services working in the tourism sector should consult and report any developments regarding the effects of COVID-19 to the appropriate authorities in their respective regions. This would include The Task Forces for the Handling of COVID-19 operated by their Governor/Regent/Mayor and established communication channels via a local Call Center.
Provincial Tourism Services must observe, monitor, and report the local economic impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic to the Tourism Ministry via the National COVID Call Center on WhatsApp at +628118956767 or by Email .
Share and publicize via social media, print publications, radio, WhatsApp Groups, and email broadcasts the procedures and health and hygiene protocols established by the Ministry of Health.
Do all possible to support the future welfare of commercial enterprises by purchasing catering from hotels and restaurants that have lost business during the current crisis. The food products ordered from these companies can be given to families who have lost their employment, are working from home, and medical workers on the front line of the COVID-19 battle at hospitals.
Undertake steps in coordination with the Department of Manpower to avoid the termination of employees during the current economic downturn.
Follow the guidelines on employment provided by the Minister of Manpower in the circular memo (Nomor: M/3/HK.04/III/2020 tentang Perlindungan Pekerja/Buruh dan Kelangsunan Usaha dalam Rangka Pencegahah dan Penanggulngan COVID-19).
Support efforts to provide support/compensation in the form of basic food supplies to workers in the informal sector of the economy, particularly in tourism destinations areas affected by the downturn.
To provide protection and income guarantees for workers in the tourism and creative economy sectors, including:
Monitor that workers and laborers categorized as “under observation” (ODP) for COVID-19, supported by a doctor’s letter of certification and are unable to attend their place of employment, receive their full wages.
Monitor that workers and laborers categorized as “suspected of COVID-19 infection and are quarantined or undergoing isolation, receive their full salaries during any period of isolation.
Monitor that worker and laborers who cannot attend their jobs because they are suffering from a COVID-19 infection as certified by a doctor’s letter receive their full wages in accordance with the law.
Monitor companies compelled to limit activities because of local government policies for the prevention of COVID-19 and, as a result of those policies, must make changes to their payroll, that this is only done following mutual agreement achieved between the workers and the employers.
The State News Agency Antara reports that the Council of Traditional Villages in Bali (MDA) and the Hindu Dharma Council (PHDI-Bali) are planning to declare an extraordinary island-wide ‘Traditional Village New Year’ (Nyepi –Nipeng Desa Adat) 18 – 20 April 2020 to accelerate the elimination of COVID-19 on the Island.
The chairman of MDA-Bali, Ida Panglingsir Agung Putra Sukahet, told the press: “This is an effort to complement the ‘Sekala'(physical) and ‘Niskala’ (spiritual) aspects of the cosmos to hasten the end of the threat of COVID.”
Spiritually, the proposed ‘Nyepi-Nipeng Desa Adat’ is closely related to an accompanying small-scale Bhuta Kala Ceremony that should be held before Tilem Kadasa (The dark moon of the tenth month of death) on 22 April 2020.”
Bali’s formal celebration of ‘Nyepi‘ took place on 25 March 2020 and mandated 24 hours of absolute silence spent behind closed doors in the dark. Meanwhile, the “Traditional Village Nyepi” scheduled for 18-20 April only requests traditional villagers to stay inside their homes unless dispensation has been granted to venture outside.
A more lenient and extended form of Nyepi, the 18-20 April Traditional Village Nyepi will NOT require that lights are turned off, Internet service be interrupted, satellite-cable television service be suspended, and that airports and seaports be closed.
The leadership of MDA and PHDI are calling on all people living in Bali, including those living outside a traditional village setting, to observe the “stay-at-home” dictum for the three-day period.
Other than the mandating people to stay at home, the observance of “traditional village Nyepi” will see the lights stay on, television and radio broadcast continue unabated, and Wi-Fi service remains up over the three days.
A formal circular will be issued after 08 April by PHDI and MDA containing the finalized details of the “traditional village Nyepi” that will be shared with Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster.
For the fourth year in a row ONE ISLAND ONE VOICE rallied and organised the annual Bali’s Biggest Clean Up. This has become a really iconic day many look forward to. This year’s cleanup was the first since Bali’s single-usedisposableplasticban.
THE BREAKDOWN OF THIS YEARS BIG BEACH CLEANUP
Thanks to partners who now for the fourth year in a row have led the evaluation of the collected waste during the annual event:MAKING OCEANS PLASTIC FREEis focused on breaking plastic habits: the number one reason for the plastic pollution of our oceans.
KILOS OF WASTE COLLECTED:
20.000kg = 20 tons collected in one day across Bali
TOP THREE ITEMS:
Plastic food packaging
Cigarette butts
Plastic bottles and cups
BREAKDOWN:
Plastic Food Wrappings: 20%
Cigarette Butts: 17%
Plastic Bottles and Cups: 16%
Straws: 11%
Other Plastic: 11%
Plastic Bags: 9% (down from 15% last year)
Other: 6%
Glass: 5%
Shoes: 3%
Fishing Gear: 1%
Cans: 1%
“Clean-Ups are just tools of awareness but this event also shows how strong we are when we come together.” —One Island One Voice
ONE ISLAND ONE VOICE: PEOPLE POWER
“One Island One Voice is a Bali-based network of organizations active in the field of waste prevention and management. We have a Komitmen (sic) for businesses to change their plastic behaviors and provide options for local alternatives. We host record breaking actions from clean ups to Human Waves. We are People Power.”
“A BIG THANK YOU to all coordinators, participants and partners who made this day possible! The sponsorship of Aqua has raised a lot of questions, comments, support, critics and we are pleased to receive everybody’s opinion. We strongly believe that the time for pointing fingers and shaming is over and that we should use the time left for collaborations and impact with all levels whether its government, private sectors, scientists, activists or NGO’s. We need all hands on board. So to all our friends who helped sponsor in one way or another, we could not have done this without your ongoing support; THANK YOU.”
The world has been hit by the new Corona Virus and it has also reached Indonesia and Bali. We will post here the latest updates on the development and corona situation in Bali and hope that all travelers and citizens will be safe. The Indonesian government is very active in managing the situation and continues to take measures to stop the disease to spread further. There are some simple things we can do to avoid getting infected with Covid-19 and to avoid the disease to spread further:
Is it ok traveling to Bali? Is Bali Safe?
It would not be right to claim that any country, be it our home country or a place we wish to visit these days is 100% safe. Based on the scientific data the world has gathered now about the coronavirus, and knowing the fatality rate and the way it is spreading, the virus is indeed a threat.
However, how much of a threat you face if coming to Bali, really depends on your individual circumstances, your personal actions and behaviors, and the level of precautions you take. And of course to a certain extend we depend on the professionalism of government authorities and also businesses that facilitate transportation, travel, etc.
The risk to get infected might be as low or high as in any other country that is not classified by the WHO as high risk area, such as China or Italy. If you are elderly or have an underlying health condition, you should carefully consider if you should travel at all these days. Indonesian authorities and particularly the ones in Bali have shown that they take the situation seriously and have implemented several regulations and procedures, that have been executed quite well. But of course, there is no guarantee, there is always room for improvement, and we all still learn how to deal with this.
For now the borders are still open, and between 1st and 12th of March 114,000 foreign visitors arrived on the island. Much less than what could be expected because of the shutdown of China, but in a way, life goes on in Bali. As in every part of the world, it is advisable to follow the precaution measures as suggested by the WHO, and to stay away from mass events. It is expected that some of the bigger concerts, events and festivals in Bali might be canceled.
So far, the number of corona patients is still low in Indonesia, particularly in relation to the total population. More cases will definitely be reported and the crisis is not over. So yes, there is a risk here in Bali, as there is a global risk to catch that virus. In this uncertain and dynamic time there is also the risk when traveling, that further travel restrictions might be announced, depending on how the situation in Indonesia and other countries evolves.
To prevent the spread of the coronavirus or COVID-19, the Provincial Government of Bali has carried out mass disinfectant spraying in a number of areas, including tourist areas.
“Today is actually not the first day; last week the provincial government of Bali with some tourism stakeholders also did this, but in limited quantities. Spraying was performed in several places in Nusa Dua and ocean crossings at sunrise. Today we will increase it to several other locations and throughout Bali, by both the Regency/ City Governments and by industries in the Regencies/ cities throughout Bali, yes, ” the Deputy Governor of Bali Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardana Sukawati (Cok Ace) told reporters Sunday (3/15/2020), at Griya Santrian, Bali.
Disinfectant spraying is performed to provide comfort to the Balinese people and tourists visiting Bali, in addition to educating the public to always keep their surrounding environment clean.
“The goal is, first, of course we want to keep Bali healthy and the second most important is how we provide comfort and education as well as to socialize to our people that they can act on things like this.
Currently, disinfectant is sprayed in places that are often frequented by tourists or the public. The public has also been asked to fight the coronavirus or COVID-19 by maintaining health and keeping their environment clean.
“Current activities are more to educate the public that things like this are needed. We can see the results of several cases in Bali, one of which died because of close contact with her husband. There are around 23 people affected in Bali that we are monitoring and we hope that the results are all negative.
In essence, if the community can protect their environment and maintain their health, then we can avoid greater risks” said Cok Ace.
“Activities that involve many people should be postponed” stated the Cok Ace, during disinfectant spraying in Sanur on Sunday (15/3).
However, when asked whether isolation steps (lockdown) had had been carried out in several regions in Indonesia related to the coronavirus, the Deputy Governor of Bali stressed that until now there has been no decision from the Bali Provincial Government to take steps to isolate or lockdown the island.
The development of the situation related to coronavirus is being continuously monitored and policies and preventive measures continue to be carried out with the priority of course on the safety and health of the people of Bali.
Public transport in Jakarta will begin operating from 6am-6pm only.
Indonesia reported 21 new coronavirus infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 117.
Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi has tested positive for COVID-19.
Indonesia reported 27 more coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of confirmed infection to 96. The total number of deaths from coronavirus rose to five.
The governor of Indonesia’s capital has ordered remote teaching for at least two weeks.
The number of cases in Indonesia has risen to 69, with two more registered deaths, totaling four.
Indonesia will temporarily ban the export of face masks to safeguard domestic supply amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo says the country registered its second coronavirus-related death.
The government will provide a six-month tax break for employees, manufacturers, and importers starting next month.
The number of cases has risen to 34. All the new cases were imported cases.
The first-ever Jakarta E-Prix has been postponed due to the coronavirus.
A 53-year-old woman has died from coronavirus in Indonesia. The woman, a foreign national, had already been in critical condition when she was admitted to a hospital. The number of infections has risen to 27.
The government is planning to delay individual and corporate income tax collection to stimulate the economy.
The number of cases rises to 19.
Indonesia has confirmed two more cases, bringing the nationwide total to 6.
Indonesia confirmed on Friday that two more people had tested positive for the coronavirus, taking the total of confirmed cases to four. The two new cases were in contact with the two previous cases.
Korean Air will suspend all flights between Indonesia’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and the Incheon International Airport from March 5 to April 25.
Indonesia has banned travelers from certain cities in Iran (Tehran, Qom and Gilan), Italy (Lombardi, Veneto, Emilia Romagna, Marche and Piedmont), and South Korea (Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do).
The Jakarta city administration has temporarily suspended the issuance of permits for mass gatherings, including for film shooting purposes.
The government has placed 48 people under observation as they were identified to have come in contact with the country’s first two positive cases.
Indonesia will turn a former Vietnamese refugee camp into a hospital for possible Covid-19 patients. The site is located on Galang island, located some 25 miles southeast of Batam and has a capacity for 1,000 beds.
The Batam administration in Riau Islands has quarantined 15 locals who were identified as having close contact with three Singaporean residents who tested positive for the virus after visiting the city.
Indonesia is working on a second stimulus package to shore up Southeast Asia’s biggest economy. This second package would be bigger than the US$725 million package announced last week.
Three people, two Singaporean citizens and one Myanmar national have tested positive for the coronavirus after visiting Indonesia.
The two patients were in contact with a Japanese national who tested positive after leaving Indonesia.
A Garuda Indonesia plane carrying 69 Indonesian crew members of the Diamond Princess cruise ship landed at Kertajati Airport in Majalengka, in West Java province, just before midnight on Sunday. The crew members will be taken to Sebaru island for quarantine.
The government has transported 188 Indonesian nationals working as crew members aboard the World Dream cruise ship to Sebaru Island.
Indonesia plans to evacuate 188 citizens working as crew members aboard the World Dream cruise ship to Sebaru Island, which is uninhabited.
Indonesia unveils US$742m stimulus to counter virus impact. The package will provide financial incentives for the tourism, airline and housing sectors hit by the outbreak. The government will waive taxes on hotels and restaurants in the nation’s top 10 tourist destinations for a three-month period starting March 1.
A second person who visited Bali, Indonesia, has tested positive for the virus. According to Japanese and Indonesian media, the Japanese man visited Bali shortly before testing positive for Covid-19.
Indonesia’s Coordinating Maritime Affairs and Investment Minister, Luhut Pandjaitan, has said the outbreak of a novel coronavirus has affected the country’s tourism sector, with estimated losses of around US$500 million.
Another five Indonesian crew members on the Diamond Princess have tested positive for the virus.
Indonesia’s central bank has cut its key interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.75 percent in addition to purchasing 27 trillion rupiah (nearly $2 billion) worth of government bonds to combat capital outflows amid the coronavirus epidemic.
Indonesia will evacuate 74 of its nationalsfrom the Diamond Princess cruise liner.
Bali has seen a huge decline in the number of tourists. The Guardian has reported that there have been around 40,000 cancellations of hotel bookings. The island is seeing a spike in domestic tourists though.
Three Indonesian crew members test positive for Covid-19 on the Diamond Princess cruise ship.
Indonesia will prepare a stimulus package to help its tourism industry mitigate the impact of the virus.
The 238 Indonesian quarantined on Natuna islands have been discharged.
The Head of the Bali Provincial Health Agency was quoted as saying the province remains safe.
An article by the Jakarta Globe has said that Indonesia could lose US$2 billion from the reduction in the number of Chinese tourists – who made up 13 percent of total international arrivals in 2019.
68 out of 70 samples from patients suspected of having Covid-19 have come back negative, says the Ministry of Health’s Research and Development agency. The other two samples are still being tested.
According to The Jakarta Post, health officials in Bali are investigating reports that a Chinese tourist has tested positive for the virus in China a week after vacationing in Bali.
Indonesia has criticized a Harvard study that said the country should have recorded cases of the virus given its air links to China and the city of Wuhan. Indonesia’s Minister of Health called the report ‘insulting’.
Indonesia is currently preparing to temporarily ban the import of live animals from China.
Authorities have set up a hotline for the public to report coronavirus cases.
The North Sumatra Health Agency has placed 83 people under observation. 45 are foreign nationals.
Indonesia has still to record any cases of the virus.
Indonesia raises travel alert for Singapore to level yellow (the second level in its three-tier system) and urging those traveling to the city-state to take extra precautions.
Indonesia has placed five Chinese workers under quarantine in North Sumatra as a precaution. Three of arrived at the Kualanamu International Airport in Medan on January 31, while their two colleagues landed on February 3.
Jakarta Post article on potential theories why Indonesia is showing zero cases here.
The Ministry of Manpower has asked migrant placement companies to stop sending workers to mainland China.
Concerns growing about lack of apparent cases in Indonesia. 243 Indonesian nationals evacuated from Wuhan have been quarantined.
The country extends tourist visas of 5,000 Chinese nationals vacationing in Bali by 30 days after they became stranded following flight suspensions. The country still reports zero cases.
Country bars all passenger arrivals who have visited China in the past 14 days.
245 Indonesians evacuated from China being quarantined at Natuna Island, no cases reported.
43,000 workers quarantined in Chinese owned mining complex on Sulawesi. Concerns over zero cases being reported in the country leading to accusations of lack of screening.
Authorities have implemented preventative measures to defend against the epidemic at 135 points of entry to the archipelago, including at airports, seaports and border areas, such as installing thermal scanners and medical check-up posts to examine suspected carriers of the virus.
Immigration dept re-evaluating Visa on Arrival from China.
Indonesia has issued a travel warning to citizens planning to travel to China.
Incoming passenger screening likely to be introduced. Lion Air has suspended flights to China.
Indonesia has issued a travel warning to citizens planning to travel to China.
No cases reported, but several patients under observation. Hospitals being prepared.
(News from the ASEAN briefing)
Posted in Bali NewsComments Off on The Coronavirus in Asia and ASEAN – Live Updates by Country
AirAsia has announced its “BIG Sale” offering 600 free seats and highly discounted seats to members of the general public wanting to travel to domestic destinations in Indonesia and overseas ports-of-call served by AirAsia.
Quoted by NusaBali, the CEO of AirAsia Indonesia, Veranita Yosephine, said on Saturday, March 7, 2020, “We have taken several strategic steps to meet the need of the public for air travel that is safe, comfortable, and affordable. With our expanding route network, AirAsia remains committed to become the best partner for the government and the public to stimulate tourism and safeguard the stability of economic growth in Indonesia, especially in challenging times such as these.”
Verantina invited the traveling public to scoop up seats from Jakarta to Johor Bahru starting from Rp. 559,000, Jakarta to the Gold Coast (Australia) starting from Rp. 775,000, Bali to Labuan Bajo starting from Rp.576,000, Jakarta to Belitung starting from Rp. 438,000 and many other special offers to AirAsia destinations now on sale. Adding: “The BIG Sales program that we are presenting is for members of the public who wish to witness first-hand the beauty of Medan, Lombok, Belitung, Yogyakarta, Bali, Labuan Bajo, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Perth and other destinations served by AirAsia.”
Tickets must be purchased before Thursday, March 14, 2020, at 11:00 pm (Jakarta time) via the AirAsia Website or on the AirAsia Mobile Application.
Tickets purchased are for people traveling before July 1, 2021.
For those traveling with extra luggage, AirAsia is offering a discount of up to 10% on excess baggage charges for 25 kilograms or more.
AirAsia reminds passengers that before deciding to travel to always stay fit and be in good health, having their health checked by medical personnel before embarking on a trip, and maintaining careful personal hygiene (and clean hands) throughout their journey.
The Task Force for the Control and Prevention of Viral Disease (COVID-19) for the Province of Bali held its first organizational meeting at the Office of the Governor of Friday, March 13, 2020.
As reported by the Balipost.com, the meeting was attended by representatives of the Provincial Police, the Regional Military Command, The Command of the Military District,various provincial government departments including tourism and health, and representatives from each regency and the City of Denpasar.
During the meeting, four key points were set as provincial goals:
Building additional capacity in public and private health facilities in the Province of Bali.
To ensure an adequate supply of supporting items are available – such as surgical masks, disinfectants, and hand sanitizers.
To enhance the capacity for early detection of COVID-19 and prevent any new cases from entering Bali via its sea and airports.
To do everything possible to practice “social distancing” by preventing the spread of the disease by limiting activities that gather people into large groups.
On Sunday, March 15, 2020, at 8:00 am, a mass-disinfection of all public places commenced in Bali led in each regency and Denpasar by the respective Regents and Mayor. On behalf of the entire Province, the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, symbolically led the disinfecting of Sanur Beach and the crossing point to Nusa Penida.
(News from Bali Discovery)
Posted in Bali Health, Bali NewsComments Off on Bali Putting a Cap on Coronavirus
A ministerial-level meeting presided over by Puan Maharani, the Coordination Minister of Human Development and Cultural (PMK) on August 28, 2019, set the schedule of 16 national holidays and 8 “shared holidays” for the calendar year 2020.
Following that ministerial-level meeting, a joint decision stipulating the holiday schedule for 2020 was published stipulating the following public holidays and shared holidays.
Here’s the list with the Bali dates for Galungan and Kuningan:
Wednesday, January 1, 2020 – New Years Day
Saturday, January 25, 2020 – “Imlek” – Chinese New Year 2571 Kongzili
Wednesday, February 19, 2020 – Hari Gulungan (Bali Only)
Saturday, February 29, 2020 – Hari Kuningan (Bali Only)
Sunday, March 22, 2020 – Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey to Heaven (Isra Mikraj)
Wednesday, March 25, 2020 – “Nyepi” – Bali Hindu Day of Silence Saka 1942
Friday, April 10, 2020 – Good Friday
Friday, May 1, 2020 – International Labor Day
Thursday, May 7, 2020 – Buddhist Celebration of the Lord Buddha’s Birthday
Thursday, May 21, 2020 – The Ascension of Jesus Christ into Heaven.
Friday, May 22, 2020 – Shared Public Holiday
Sunday-Monday, May 24-25, 2020 – Lebaran, – Hari Raya Idul Fitri 1441 H.
Tuesday-Wednesday, May 26-27, 2020 – Shared Public Holidays
Thursday-Friday, May 28-29, 20020 – Additional shared holiday
Monday, June 1, 2020 – Pancasila Day in honor of the State Philosophy.
Friday, July 31, 2020 – Islamic Day of Sacrifice “Idul Adha 1441 H.”
Monday, August 17, 2020 – Indonesian Independence Day.
Thursday, August 20, 2020 – Islamic New Year 1442 H.
Friday, August 21, 2020 – Additional shared holiday.
Wednesday, September 16, 2020 – Hari Galungan (Bali Only)
Saturday, September 26, 2020 – Hari Kuningan (Bali Only)
Thursday, October 29, 2020 – Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad SAW.
Friday, October 30, 2020 – Additional shared holiday
Thursday, December 24, 2020 – Shared Public Holiday
Friday, December 25, 2020 – Christmas Day
(News from Bali Discovery)
Posted in Bali News, EventsComments Off on List of Indonesian Holidays in 2020
Beginning in March 2020, the PT ASDP – Indonesia’s State-owned Ferry and Ferry Port Operator will provide an online ticket reservation systems on its Ketapang-Gilamanuk service connecting East Java and West Bali.
NusaBali reports that the new online ticket service is gradually being introduced with PT ASDP, hoping those traveling between the two ports will come to the online ticket system to improve ferry services to the public.
The general manager of ASDP for the Ketapang-Gilmanuk Ferry Ports, Fahmi Alweni, confirmed on Sunday, March 1, 2020, the online ticket system has been in operation for some time. However, in keeping with the nationwide push for greater efficiency and cashless transaction, efforts are now underway to accelerate and maximize the use of ASDP’s online ticketing system.
As ASDP works toward the eventual goal of 100% prepaid online ticketing, passengers can still purchase their tickets from ticket booths in operation at the ports and other locations.
Ferry tickets can be purchased from the designated website ferizy.com or by downloading the application for ASDP Tickets available from Play Store. When purchasing a ticket online, passengers will be required to list their identities, details on fellow passengers, and the vehicle making the crossing to permit the preparation of the passenger and vehicle manifest needed before a ferry is allowed to sail. Customers will also be asked to pick a departure time for their voyage.
Online ASDP Ferry Tickets ordered online can be paid a “maximum” of two hours before the ferry’s scheduled departure time. Payment for the ticket can be made using electronic online payment methods.
Ticket ordering and payment can also be made via selected mini-markets or other electronic transaction outlets.
Passengers using the ASDP online ticketing system will need to arrive at the port before the scheduled departure time of the voyage they selected. Discussions are underway on how ASDP will deal with ticket holders who miss their designated sailing time with officials confirming some degree of flexibility will be granted during the initial operation period of the online ticketing system.
Fahmi told the press how the new ASDP online ticketing system would speed administration, assist in voyage planning, and help the ferry company keep to their printed schedule.
Bali Hai Cruises – the Island of Bali’s most experienced day-cruise operator have just launched its latest cruise product to complement its program of luxury excursion to Nusa Lembongan Island.
The Nusa Penida Adventure Cruise is a high-adrenalin full-day tour onboard the Bali Hai Ocean Raft – the 24-passenger fastest boat in Bali. “The Raft” accommodates a maximum of 24-passengers who are securely strapped into their seats of a rigid inflatable speedboat, as they speed across the waves of the Indian Ocean.
Sorry, but this trip is not suitable for children under the age of 10 years, pregnant women, or those with back or heart conditions.
The schedule for this unforgettable day afloat follows the following schedule:
The schedule for this unforgettable day afloat follows the following schedule:
07:45 am Pick up from Bali accommodation
08:30 am Fit-out with snorkeling gear at the Port before sailing.
09:00 am Buckle-in and depart on Ocean Raft from Benoa Harbor.
09:45 am Arrival at Manta Bay for 30 minutes of snorkeling.
10:20 am Arrival Crystal Bay Beach. Snacks and water provided.
10:30 am Departure by motor vehicle for scenic Kelinking Beach.
11:30 am Arrival at Kelinking Beach.
12:15 pm Depart for Angel Billabong & Broken Beach.
12:45 pm Arrival at Angel Billabong & Broken Beach.
1:30 pm Departure for Crystal Bay Beach.
2:00 pm Arrival at Crystal Bay Beach.
2:00 pm Depart on Ocean Raft for a cruise through Ceningan Channel
2:15 pm Picnic Lunch served on board Ocean Raft.
3:15 pm Arrival at Bali Hai Cruise Beach Club, Lembongan Island.
4:30 pm Ocean Raft departs from Beach Club for Benoa Harbor
5:30 pm Ocean Raft Arrives at Benoa Harbor.
5:30 pm Transfer to Bali Accommodation.
Inclusions
● Return accommodation transfers ● Snorkeling equipment ● Cruise past the South Coast of Nusa Penida Island to view 300-foot limestone cliffs ● Snorkeling visit to Manta Bay ● Guided tour of Kelingking Beach, Angel Billabong, and Broken Beach on Nusa Penida ● Snack box and mineral water ● Cruise through Ceniningan Channel ● Picnic lunch on board Ocean Raft ● Visit to Nusa Lembongan Marine Park and Bali Hai Beach Club● Towel
Price
With a rate valid through 31 March 2021, adults can join a Nusa Penida Adventure Cruise for Rp. 1,780,000 per person. Children aged 10-14 years Rp. 1,265,000 per person.
For more information and bookings telephone +62-(0)361-720331 or +62-(0)811 3975252.
Nyepi is the Balinese Day of Silence, marking the start of a New Year on the 210-day Balinese Calendar. It is a day of profound introspection during which devout Balinese Hindus will refrain from turning on lights, entertainments, physical pleasures, traveling outside the home, and, for some, even eating and speaking. During Nyepi, houses and businesses go dark and quiet, streets and roads have no traffic, and those employed in essential services from hotels to hospitals are to stay at their place of employment for two-nights, stating from the eve before Nyepi until the morning of the day after the Day of Silence. A unique phenomenon found only on the Island of Bali, air and seaports come to an absolute standstill with cable television and, often, Internet services suspended for at least 24-hours.
Nyepi in 2020 (Saka 1942) will be observed in Bali from 6:00 am on Wednesday, March 25th, until 6:00 am the following morning of March 26, 2020. The eve before “Nyepi” – this year on March 24th – is celebrated in riotous-mardi-gras-like-fashion as intoxicated young men from village banjars parade the streets and roads carrying giant ogoh-ogohpapier-mâché effigies. As the day of silence is about to dawn, the young men, many of them sore-headed, abandon and burn the ogoh-ogoh on the roadsides before retiring to their respective homes for 24-hours of docile silence and self-reflection.
Bali has a long-standing tradition that foreign visitors and non-Hindus will respect Nyepi by staying confined to their places of residence or hotels during the mandated period of silence. While restaurants within hotels remain open within the hotel, guests are required to not venture beyond the hotel premises for at least 24 hours from sunrise on New Year’s Day until dawn the following morning. Employees of the hotel, unable to return to their homes, are provided sleeping accommodation for two nights so that guests can be served during the Nyepi period.
There is no better way to embrace the peacefulness that envelopes the Island of Bali at Nyepi than to spend this special Balinese Holy Day on the secluded black sands of Lebih Beach at the Rumah Luwih, Bali. A genuinely grand hotel reminiscent of an era of exquisite colonial hotels, a stay at the Rumah Luwih is a trip back in time. Guests are immersed in the tranquil ambiance of lush tropical gardens, views of the restless Indian Ocean, rice fields – all set against a memorable backdrop of hills and volcanoes.
The unique Silence Day Retreat Package prepared for guests spending Nyepi at the Rumah Luwih Bali will be as majestic as the hotel itself. This exclusive Nyepi Package includes accommodation for three-days and two-nights, a lavish daily buffet breakfast, a one-time delicious buffet lunch, and one dinner at Andrawina Restaurant for two persons.
Additional benefits include complimentary Wi-Fi and use of the resort’s extensive recreation facilities that include a well-equipped fitness center and large infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The Vandaloka Spa will be staffed and remain open over the Nyepi period, where guests can pamper their minds and bodies while enjoying a discount of 20% on all spa packages.
The Peaceful Silence Day Retreat is priced starting from Rp. 3,300,000 net per room for two persons. The package price is for a two night stays accommodation with special extension rates available for those wishing to extend to the weekend. Book directly and save an additional 25% off the package price.
For further info and reservations, call +62-(0)361- 200 5899 or Email .
About Rumah Luwih
Discover the essence of Balinese hospitality at Rumah Luwih – an award-winning luxury architecture-design hotel. Designed by renowned Indonesian architect Hadiprana. Rumah Luwih’s design embraces classic colonial Indonesian mansion architecture style.
Rumah Luwih is a sanctuary where guests reconnect with nature and discover the very best of Bali has to offer. Indulge in views of the Indian Ocean, the hotel’s lake, lushly manicured gardens, and towering volcanic peaks. Rumah Luwih, Bali is the holiday escape and the ideal choice for meaningful celebrations. Located in Gianyar, just 30-minutes north of Sanur, Rumah Luwih is the unrivaled choice for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle during the Nyepi Holiday. Strategically positioned within close proximity of Ubud and historical destinations along Bali’s East Coast such as Candidasa, Amed, Sidemen, and Klungkung -make Rumah Luwih a strategic starting point for any Bali exploration.
Rumah Luwih, Bali offers complimentary shuttle services to both Sanur and Ubud for hotel guests.
Welcome to the the Bali Tourism Board, the voice of Bali's tourism industry! As one of the prime tourist destinations of the world, the extraordinarily unique island of Bali virtually ensures a great holiday for backpackers and VIPs alike! From hostels to award-winning world-class resorts, Bali has it all! Come and experience Bali's one-of-a-kind culture and the natural hospitality of her people.
ONE ISLAND ONE VOICE: PEOPLE POWER
