BALI Hotels Association (BHA) sought to strengthen its members’ resilience against terror threats through a one-day security workshop last Thursday, following the recent arrest of 11 terrorist suspects in Indonesia’s Solo, Central Java.
The workshop, attended by 78 security and training managers, covered a range of subjects and featured guest speakers from the British and Australian embassies. BHA also presented a new version of its Hotel Security and Safety Self-Assessment Tool, while the Bali Security Managers Association launched the Bali Security and Safety Emergency Radio Communications System. Police representatives also shed light on new meetings regulations for Bali.
BHA security and safety executive, Alexander Kesper, said: “This workshop underlines our commitment towards the highest standards not only with regard to the creation of unforgettable and unique holiday experiences for our guests, but also security and safety. To safeguard our guests and employees is a top priority and a team effort.”
Meanwhile, tighter police security is seen at Bali’s Gilimanuk, where ferry services connect Java with the resort island.
However, travel trade players in Jogjakarta and Central Java have reported business as usual.
Mekar Wisata Jogjakarta director, Tusi Kuswenda, said: “We have not had any queries or cancellations despite the news. We currently have a group of expatriate students touring Jogjakarta, visiting and helping a village affected by the Mount Merapi eruption a couple of years ago.”
Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Jakarta chapter chairman, Hasiyanna Ashadi, who is also Marintur Indonesia’s managing director, also said she had not heard any queries on security issues from either side.
“It is probably because the latest terrorist targets were the Indonesian police and not tourist and public spots, and security forces have been quick in breaking the cell,” she said.
Nevertheless, Jogjakarta Tourism Office director, Tazbir Abdullah, said they were taking precautions and appealing to tourism stakeholders and society to stay calm and vigilant.
“(The regional government) is ready to issue safety information should anyone be in doubt,” he said.
