Bali is once again in the spotlight due to the rising number of foreign tourists who are illegally working on the island. Without proper work permits, they are taking on jobs such as street vendors, service marketers, and even tour guides—occupations that should be reserved for local workers.

The issue of foreign tourists using visitor visas to engage in illegal work in Bali has been an ongoing concern. However, despite its persistence, the problem remains unresolved, with no firm action from the government. This has been highlighted by the Secretary of the Independent Workers Federation (FSPM) Regional Bali, Ida I Dewa Made Rai Budi Darsana.

“The issue of illegal foreign workers has been a problem in Bali for a long time. We are simply asking for the government to take a firm stance. If this continues, it will become a major problem, and the government’s indifference will only make it worse,” said Dewa Rai on Wednesday (April 30, 2025).

He emphasized that the majority of foreign tourists taking on jobs in Bali are found in the informal sector. Some of them are involved in selling goods, marketing services, or even working as instructors.

“This is difficult to detect. Therefore, it is crucial for immigration authorities, the labor department, and labor inspectors to seriously ensure that there are no loopholes for illegal actions in Bali,” Dewa explained.

In the tourism sector, Dewa also mentioned reports of foreign tourists working as tour guides, organizing tours, marketing services, and even making transactions with other foreign tourists.

“Imagine if now, illegal foreign workers slip under the radar. It will result in locals losing out on opportunities, and many who visit Bali will be served by foreigners instead of the community,” he added.

According to Dewa, the lack of effective oversight remains a key challenge. He urged the public to report any foreign nationals found working illegally in Indonesia to labor unions or the government.

Previously, dozens of workers from the People’s Struggle Alliance of Bali marched to the Badung Government Center (Puspem Badung). They presented 19 demands as part of the commemoration of International Labor Day on May 1st.

The protesters highlighted the labor crisis exacerbated by changes in regulations through the merger of labor laws into the Omnibus Law (Ciptaker Law). They criticized the hasty drafting of the Omnibus Law and the lack of public participation.

They also pointed out the negative impacts of the Omnibus Law, which are felt not only in large industries but also in the fisheries sector. According to them, fishery workers have long been in precarious working conditions, facing long hours and low wages.

Moreover, the protesters criticized budget efficiency policies, which they claim have led to mass layoffs, including in the education sector. Many professors and educators have been affected, with unresolved issues regarding Performance Allowance payments in the Ministry of Education and Culture.