DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – A proposal by Bali Governor I Wayan Koster to stop the operation of digital accommodation platforms such as Airbnb has drawn significant response from homestay operators across the island. Many argue that a full ban would not address the underlying issue of regional tax contribution and could hinder Bali’s tourism growth.
Nyoman Dini Andiani, Chair of the Indonesia Homestay Association (IHSA) Bali Chapter, stated that prohibiting such platforms outright is not an appropriate solution. She emphasized that many small-scale accommodation providers depend heavily on digital marketing channels to reach travelers.
“A total ban on platforms like Airbnb is not the best solution. What we need is inclusive and collaborative regulation, treat the platforms as partners, not adversaries,” she said on Tuesday, 9 December 2025.
Dini explained that legalization, proper registration, and clearer tax mechanisms would be far more effective than shutting down access to digital platforms. She urged the governor to reconsider the plan, noting the risk it poses to Bali’s accommodation sector and tourism promotion.
“Legalization and proper data collection are reasonable steps, not a prohibition that could suppress the potential of Bali’s accommodation sector,” she added.
She stressed that digital platforms help local operators reach global markets more efficiently. “This allows us to support regional revenue, protect local businesses, and still leverage digital tools to promote Bali internationally,” she noted.
Governor Koster previously stated that his administration would review and propose the suspension of Airbnb operations, claiming the platform does not adequately contribute to Bali’s regional revenue, especially in relation to hotel and restaurant taxes.
“We will review this and propose that it be stopped,” Koster said during the 15th Bali PHRI Regional Meeting in Denpasar on 3 December 2025.
He also asserted that more than 2,000 unlicensed hotels and villas operate in Bali and must be regulated. “Airbnb does not fully support Bali’s local economy. There are illegal and non-compliant operators, and we will take firm action, no exceptions,” he stated.