Bali toughens crackdown on foreign tourists as bad behaviour sparks backlash

Bali is taking a tougher stance on badly behaved foreign visitors, with a Swiss tourist sentenced to one year in prison after mocking the island’s sacred Day of Silence.

Luzian Andrin Zgraggen, 26, was sentenced by a Bali court on 20 August after posting Instagram videos filmed during Nyepi, the Hindu religious day observed in March. Despite warnings from accommodation staff, he went outside and walked towards a beach, posting footage containing profanity and comments mocking the restrictions.

The videos triggered widespread anger among Balinese residents. Zgraggen apologised in court, saying he had not intended to insult the Hindu religion or Balinese people, but was convicted under Indonesia’s new criminal code.

The case comes amid a wider crackdown on foreign nationals. Bali immigration authorities deported 342 foreigners in the first six months of 2026, mainly for visa overstays or misuse, while also targeting breaches of local customs and public-order rules.

The tougher approach follows Bali’s rapid tourism recovery. International arrivals reached 6.9 million in 2025, surpassing the island’s pre-pandemic record. Residents have increasingly complained about traffic, housing costs, illegal work, overcrowding, and visitors ignoring local customs.

Social media has amplified the issue, turning isolated incidents into viral controversies and increasing pressure on authorities to act.

Indonesian officials are promoting ‘quality tourism’, with stronger enforcement against visitors who breach immigration rules or disrespect Balinese culture.

While Bali remains open to tourists, travellers are expected to understand and comply with local laws, religious traditions, and social norms.