Politics as a Means to Increase Tourism

(3/9/2008)

Bali's political leaders have resolved that the fiercely contested race for Island Governor to be held on July 9, 2008, will not negatively impact tourism. Moreover, local leaders are convinced that, handled correctly, the upcoming elections can actually become a genuine tourism attraction.

Bali's outgoing governor, Dewa Made Beratha, told an election planning meeting in Denpasar on February 22nd that the coming elections will be a "party of democracy" featuring Balinese culture, dances and local parades that he feels are certain to be found interesting by tourist visitors.

The Governor told the meeting that all must work to create an election atmosphere that is safe, orderly, respectful, cultured and democratically transparent. "This is important to preserve our international tourism reputation and elevate the name of the Indonesian people."

At the same meeting, the Chairman of the Public Election Commission for Bali, Anak Agung Oka Wisnumurti, said his team was working to create the very sort of election campaign outlined by the Governor's vision.

Meanwhile, Bali's Chief of Police, General Paulus Purwoko, assured the meeting that his officers would make it a top priority to maintain security during the campaign and elections period.