Koster Welcomes Taipei-Bali Route, Targeting Increased Tourist Arrivals

The opening of this direct route is expected to provide a positive impact on Balinese tourism.

Denpasar (ANTARA) - Bali Governor Wayan Koster has welcomed the plan to open a direct flight route between Taipei and Bali, which is targeted to increase visits from Taiwanese international tourists.

“Air connectivity is a crucial factor in opening and strengthening the international tourist market; we hope the opening of this direct route will provide a positive impact on Bali’s tourism,” said Koster in Denpasar on Friday.

The Governor made these remarks while receiving an introductory visit from the new Director General of the Taipei Economic and Trade Office (TETO) Surabaya, David Wen-Chiun Lin.

Koster emphasised that ease of flight accessibility is the primary key to revitalising the regional tourism sector. As a sign of full support, he even expressed his interest in personally attending the inaugural flight ceremony for Starlux Airlines, which is scheduled to land on 1 October 2026.

In addition to discussing flight routes, both parties utilised the meeting to examine the development of Taiwanese citizens visiting or residing in Bali. The tourism sector is considered one of the most strategic fields for strengthening cooperation and bilateral relations between the people of Bali and Taiwan.

David Wen-Chiun Lin, Director General of TETO Surabaya, shared the plans for the inauguration of the first Taipei (TPE)-Denpasar (DPS) flight by Starlux Airlines in early October. The Taipei-Bali flight route is not new, but rather a reopening after a period of suspension.

This step is being taken to provide easier access, time efficiency, and mobility convenience for Taiwanese citizens wishing to holiday in Bali. “With direct flights from Taiwan to Bali, it is hoped that visits from Taiwanese tourists to Bali can continue to increase,” said David.

David noted that the high interest among Taiwanese citizens in travelling abroad presents a significant opportunity that Bali must capitalise on. He is optimistic that tourist numbers will continue to grow with the availability of direct flight options that do not require transit.

This new air connectivity is believed to be able to strengthen Bali’s position as one of the primary priority destinations for tourists from Taiwan. This official meeting also serves as an initial momentum for the Bali Provincial Government and the new leadership of TETO Surabaya to strengthen communication channels and cooperation across various sectors.