Bali Police Chief Highlights Synergy with Pecalang in Foreigner Surveillance

Bali Police Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya has stressed the need for synergy between the police, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), pecalang (traditional Balinese security forces), and the community to maintain security stability amidst increasing domestic and international tourist mobility. He stated that any development in Bali’s security situation will attract international attention because Bali is Indonesia’s most recognised face globally. Beyond being a global tourist destination, Bali is one of the largest contributors to national foreign exchange and investment. ‘Every development in Bali’s security situation will always be the world’s attention. Bali is not only home to the Balinese people but also Indonesia’s showcase to the international community,’ he said, as quoted by detikBali on Tuesday (23/6/2026). Therefore, the Bali Police continue to implement various strategic measures to maintain public safety and order, including strengthening surveillance of foreign nationals on the Island of the Gods. Throughout 2025, the Bali Police recorded 225 foreign nationals involved as criminal perpetrators, while 339 others became victims of crime. This data serves as a basis for reinforcing the monitoring system of foreign nationals’ activities to prevent potential disruptions to security and public order. In 2026, the Bali Police also conducted Operation Sikat Agung, which successfully reduced the crime rate by 23 percent during the January to April period. Security was enhanced through routine patrols in major tourist areas such as Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Sanur, and Nusa Dua, which are centres of foreign tourist activity. Additionally, the public and tourists can utilise the 110 emergency service, which operates 24 hours a day with multilingual support, to report security disturbances or criminal acts. As part of a technology-based surveillance transformation, the Bali Police launched the Cakra Pengawasan Orang Asing (Cakrawasi) Command Centre on 13 March 2026. This system enables integrated and real-time monitoring of foreign nationals’ activities through data from hotels, accommodations, and various relevant stakeholders. Adityajaya asserted that the success of maintaining security in Bali does not solely depend on law enforcement apparatus. The role of the community, particularly the pecalang as a security force rooted in local wisdom, is one of the main strengths in preserving regional stability. During a joint assembly of Bali Pecalang ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara Day, the pecalang pledged their commitment to synergise in safeguarding peace in every inch of Balinese land and supporting the realisation of quality, ethical, and sustainable tourism. The Police Chief noted that pecalang are a legacy of local wisdom possessing strong customary legitimacy because they grow and are deeply rooted within the community. With approximately 25,000 personnel spread across Bali, pecalang form a vital part of the early detection system and the resolution of social issues through persuasive and cultural approaches.