Deputy Tourism Minister says reports of illegal levies at tourist sites drop during Eid

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa stated that there was a decline in reports of illegal levies (pungli) at tourist sites during the 2026 Eid holiday period, although such practices were still found at several locations. “We monitored that this year it is much lower than the previous year regarding information on pungli and price increases or hikes at tourist destinations or hotel visits and so on,” said Deputy Minister Ni Luh Puspa in response to reporters’ questions after a press conference at the Presidential Staff Office in Jakarta on Wednesday. “Therefore, we convey that the 2026 Eid holiday is running well and the development is quite positive,” she added. The Ministry of Tourism itself continues to receive reports of illegal levies, including those reported in the Banten region. Regarding this, she assured direct coordination with the local government to conduct further inspections. Specifically for the Banten region, she mentioned that the Governor of Banten had previously issued regulations in the form of a circular to ensure no illegal levy activities occur at tourist sites in the province. In addition, preventive measures were taken to prevent excessive price increases during the Eid holiday period. Previously, the Deputy Minister, in a statement on Friday (13/3), urged all stakeholders to ensure that tourist destinations are free from illegal levy practices ahead of the long Nyepi and Eid 2026 holidays. “There should also be no excessive tariff increases. This must be ensured so that the public and tourists truly feel safe and comfortable when visiting,” said Ni Luh Puspa.