AUSTRALIA has downgraded its travel advisory to Bali in response to heightened security efforts by Indonesian authorities, who successfully foiled a terrorist attack in Sanur, Denpasar in March.
Previously, the Australian government advised its citizens to “reconsider the need to travel” to the popular island resort. Now, Canberra has toned down its stance to “exercise a high degree of caution”, putting the destination on the same tier as Thailand and the Philippines.
“This a positive development based on a carefully considered assessment of the level of threat to Australian travellers in Indonesia,” said Australian ambassador to Indonesia, Greg Moriarty.
Bali Hotels Association (BHA) chairman, Jean-Charles Le Coz, said: “I am happy that our efforts in maintaining safety and security have been recognised internationally, especially by our biggest market.”
Le Coz cited recent initiatives by BHA to improve the level of security in Bali, such as organising workshops on surveillance detection, and founding the Integrated Police Radio Community Bali programme that allows BHA members and other tourism stakeholders to contact the police directly via UHF radio.
Australia is Bali’s top source market, accounting for more than 26 per cent of arrivals. Inbound numbers in March 2012 saw a 24 per cent year-on-year increase over March 2011.
