PHDI Bali Speaks Out on Foreign Tourists Insulting Nyepi: Tolerance Has Its Limits
The Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) in Bali has spoken out regarding the case of foreign tourists allegedly insulting Nyepi Day. This incident is viewed not merely as a legal violation but also as a form of disregard for the sacred values upheld by Balinese society.
PHDI Bali Chairman I Nyoman Kenak stressed that Bali remains open to international tourists. However, there are boundaries that must not be crossed.
“Bali accepts anyone who comes, but everyone is obliged to respect the customs, culture, and living spiritual values in Bali. Tolerance has its limits; it cannot be interpreted as permissiveness,” he asserted.
According to Kenak, Nyepi Day is not just a holiday but a sacred moment for Hindus to engage in self-reflection in a silent atmosphere. Therefore, any actions that belittle or insult Nyepi, including through social media, constitute an affront to the beliefs of Balinese people.
“We deeply regret the presence of parties who do not understand or even disrespect the meaning of Nyepi. This is not just about rules but about ethics and respect for local wisdom,” Kenak stated over the phone on Monday (23/3/2026).
The phenomenon of tourists disregarding Balinese customs is not a first-time occurrence. In recent years, similar cases have repeated, from tourists continuing activities outdoors during Nyepi leading to deportation, to actions deemed to desecrate sacred sites.
Previously, a tourist from the United States was detained by authorities in the Sukawati area of Gianyar for walking on public roads during Nyepi. This action clearly violated the principle of Amati Lelungan, the prohibition on travel that is part of the Catur Brata Penyepian. Ironically, in circulating reports, the tourist pretended to be mute when apprehended by officials.
There was also the antics of a Swiss tourist who openly insulted Nyepi on social media with crude language. The post went viral and sparked widespread anger, as it was seen not merely as a violation but as an insult to sacred religious values.
Looking further back, a similar case occurred in 2023 when two tourists from Poland were deported for continuing outdoor activities during Nyepi. In 2020, a foreign tourist boldly went for a morning run amid the Nyepi atmosphere, claiming it was for exercise, as if the rules held no meaning to be respected.
“We urge stronger and more systematic education for tourists upon their arrival in Bali. All parties, both government and tourism operators, must share responsibility,” Kenak emphasised.
PHDI Bali also called on law enforcement authorities to act firmly against every violation to create a deterrent effect. However, a preventive approach through education remains indispensable.
Furthermore, PHDI Bali reminded that maintaining Bali’s harmony is a collective responsibility, including for visiting tourists.