Bali’s incoming Governor, Wayan Koster, has rejected a proposed moratorium on new tourism developments. Instead, he plans to enforce stricter regulations to ensure sustainable growth in popular resort areas like Canggu, Uluwatu, Kuta, and Seminyak.

The proposed ban aimed to halt the construction of new hotels, resorts, and beach clubs for up to two years. Introduced in 2024 by outgoing national leaders, the policy was supported by local figures, including the Acting Governor and Bali Tourism Board Chairman.

However, Koster dismissed the plan, emphasizing that existing regulations can control tourism development if properly enforced. Speaking at The Trans Resort in Seminyak, he asserted that a moratorium was unnecessary because stricter oversight could address overdevelopment.

Many critics agree that enforcement has been the missing piece, with unchecked construction in Bali’s busiest areas raising sustainability concerns. Koster’s rejection of the moratorium may also signal his preference for maintaining provincial control over tourism policies rather than adopting central government measures.

The moratorium, had it been enacted, would have temporarily stopped issuing permits for hotels, villas, and beach clubs in South Bali. Supporters, such as Bali Tourism Board Chairman Ida Bagus Agung Partha Adnyana, argue it would help manage overtourism and protect Bali’s landscapes.

Adnyana noted that licensing controls could encourage sustainable tourism and long-term benefits for local communities. He also emphasized the importance of stricter enforcement to avoid exploitation of Bali’s natural and cultural resources.

Governor Koster has been vocal about his plans to regulate tourism. In his first term, he proposed quotas to limit annual tourist arrivals and introduced the Bali Tourism Tax Levy. The tax requires international visitors to contribute IDR 150,000 toward preserving Balinese culture, protecting landscapes, and enhancing infrastructure.

While the levy has raised funds, only 40% of tourists comply, and there is little transparency about how the money is used. Critics worry that without a clear sustainability plan or stronger enforcement, Bali remains vulnerable to overdevelopment.

Koster’s decision to abandon the moratorium in favor of stricter oversight could reshape the island’s tourism future. However, questions remain about whether this approach will be enough to balance development and preservation in Bali.