DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – The Denpasar City Government is positioning the Bali International Film Festival (Balinale) 2026 as a strategic driver to attract high-quality tourists and strengthen the city’s creative tourism sector.
Denpasar Regional Secretary I Gusti Ngurah Eddy Mulya said international film festivals play an important role in reaching travelers who seek cultural and creative experiences beyond conventional tourism.
“Visitors are not only coming for beaches and food, but also for cultural and creative experiences. This is what we want to promote in Denpasar,” he said on Saturday.
The city’s approach focuses on improving tourism quality rather than simply increasing visitor numbers, with events like Balinale seen as key platforms to elevate Denpasar’s image as a cultural and creative destination.
Officials also emphasized the importance of active government involvement in supporting the creative industry ecosystem.
“We do not want to be passive observers. The government aims to act as a strategic partner for creative industry players and cultural communities,” Eddy Mulya added.
Sanur has been identified as a focal area for cultural activities and international events, supported by ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure and creative spaces.
The city is also prioritizing investment in human resources, particularly young filmmakers, artists, and cultural communities, as a foundation for sustainable tourism.
“The best investment is in young creators and cultural communities who drive the creative ecosystem,” he said.
Meanwhile, Balinale Festival Director Deborah Gabinetti explained that the “Road to Balinale 2026” series is designed to connect local communities with global creative industry players.
The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration through informal networking events involving filmmakers, creative professionals, and cultural practitioners.
The 19th edition of Balinale is scheduled to take place from June 1 to 7, 2026, featuring approximately 100 films from 35 countries.
The festival will also include international talent development programs, such as “Art of the Score,” developed in collaboration with The Juilliard School.
Through these initiatives, Denpasar aims to enhance its appeal as a destination for cultural tourism while supporting the growth of its creative economy.