Key Takeaways
- Bali plans to ban tourist motorbike rentals due to safety worries after numerous accidents and misconduct incidents.
- With over 400 motor vehicle-related deaths in 2020, the government aims to prioritize safety for both locals and visitors.
- While some locals support the ban for safety reasons, concerns arise among business owners regarding its potential impact on tourism.
Bali, Indonesia–The Bali Provincial Government has announced plans to ban tourists from using motorbikes on the island over concerns for the safety of tourists and locals.
Safety Concerns Emerge
The decision was made after a series of accidents and incidents involving tourists misbehaving on motorbikes, which have led to public outcry and demands for stricter regulations.
“You [should] not roam about the island using motorbikes, without wearing shirts or clothes, no helmet, and even without a license,” Governor of Bali Wayan Koster said in a report adding that tourists should behave themselves when in another country.
Bali saw about 405 deaths from motor vehicle accidents in 2020 alone, thus leading authorities to take the drastic measure.
Mixed Reactions Surface
Many (mainly locals) have supported the ban, stating that it will make the island safer and more pleasant.
“About time, foreign tourist(s) on a motorcycle is a menace on d(the) roads, especially western tourists lack nuances, alertness & awareness of driving and traversing the congested roads. Can’t master the art of zigzagging and handling of motorcycles, and it’s a life skill experience,” said one Twitter user.
However, not all feel the same way. Many local business owners are concerned that the ban will hurt their businesses. Some stated that it would’ve been wiser to impose specific bans instead of a blanket ban on all rentals as it could affect tourism.
Many tourists, too, are not too happy about this.
“Imagine if we banned selective people from the main mode of transport …” said another user.
Change in Transportation Practices
Under the new regulations, tourists can no longer rent motorbikes or scooters in Bali. Instead, they will be encouraged to use alternative forms of transportation such as bicycles, taxis, and public transport.
The ban is expected to come into effect later this year, although specific details still need to be released.
What We Think
The decision to ban tourist motorbike rentals in Bali stems from a genuine concern for safety. While it addresses critical issues, it sparks debates about its potential impact on local businesses and visitor experiences.
Balancing safety measures with tourism needs is crucial. Offering alternative transportation options is a positive step, but crafting nuanced regulations might better serve safety concerns without significantly hindering tourists’ mobility.
Finding a middle ground between safety and convenience will be vital in navigating this issue.
Buh-bye Bali LOL.
I do understand the desire to lessen recklessness from irresponsible tourists. But banning the motorbikes creates far more problems while solving the singular accident issue.
For example, many tens of thousands of tourists will stop visiting Bali because the only reliable, freeing, convenient way to get around the island for us is by motorbike. Been there 5 times. Spent over a year collectively in Bali. The Transport aka taxi option is not reliable. Cycling from Ubud town center out into the rice fields in hot, steamy, sweaty conditions for 45 minutes is not realistic for even in shape digital nomads, like myself.
However, I do respect the government and its laws because they figure the best way to get rid of the moto-madness is to get rid of a root source of the accidents: irresponsible tourists.
Of course, when tourist numbers drop in the tens of thousands and hundreds of Balinese go out of business and lose tons of money as their motorbike rental shops propped up by tourists disappear….this idea may be perceived as having been a snap judgement.
Get rid of one problem. Create 10 more problems.
We shall see.