BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Authorities in Badung Regency have begun investigating allegations of illegal foreign workers employed at several nightlife venues in the Canggu area of North Kuta, one of Bali’s busiest tourism and entertainment districts.
The investigation is being handled by the Badung Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Agency (DPMPTSP), which is currently reviewing business permits and possible operational violations linked to the establishments.
Head of DPMPTSP Badung, Made Surya Dharma, said the supervision of foreign workers primarily falls under the authority of the central government and provincial labor agencies. However, local authorities are continuing to monitor compliance from the business licensing side.
“If there are indications of violations or businesses operating without proper permits, we will take firm action,” Surya Dharma said on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
According to him, officials are currently investigating reports that several nightlife venues may have employed foreign nationals without proper work authorization.
One business located on Jalan Pemelisan Agung in Canggu has recently drawn particular public attention as part of the investigation.
Surya Dharma explained that his office is now examining company names and registered addresses listed in business permit documents to verify operational legality and follow up on allegations involving illegal foreign workers.
The investigation also comes amid growing scrutiny of tourism businesses in Bali that are suspected of employing foreigners outside official immigration and labor regulations.
Separately, Bali Provincial Legislative Council (DPRD Bali) Commission IV member Agung Bagus Tri Candra Arka acknowledged that foreign workers are commonly found in nightlife businesses across the Canggu area.
However, he stressed that the legal status of workers and business ownership must still be examined by the relevant authorities.
The politician, widely known as Gung Cok, urged government agencies to immediately conduct field inspections and verify operational permits.
He also did not dismiss allegations that some nightlife venues in the area may be owned by foreign nationals.
“It is correct that inspections are being carried out by the licensing agency. Through this process, authorities can identify all operational activities of these nightlife venues, including possible illegal foreign workers,” he said.
Authorities have not yet announced the results of the ongoing inspections or whether any sanctions will be imposed against businesses found violating regulations.