Two Dutch Nationals Blacklisted from Indonesia Over Discriminatory Running Club
Indonesian immigration authorities have officially blacklisted two Dutch nationals, barring them from entering the country, following a controversy over a discriminatory running club in Bali. The two men, identified by the initials JAS (35) and HQV (37), were responsible for organising events that allegedly excluded local residents. Immigration officials confirmed the pair had already left Bali for Singapore before the physical sanction could be imposed, but their passports have now been flagged for denial of entry.
The case erupted after a community named Entourage Bali went viral on social media. An Indonesian woman shared her experience of attempting to register for the club, revealing that her application was held for review while her husband, using a Western name and phone number, was accepted instantly. The incident sparked public outrage and accusations of discrimination against local Indonesians.
Hendarsam Marantoko, the Director General of Immigration for Bali, stated that the event violated regulations and exhibited clear discrimination. He noted that the organisers had acted as if they could set their own rules and exclusivity within Indonesian jurisdiction. The immigration office emphasised that foreigners on tourist or visit visas are strictly prohibited from working as event organisers.
Bali Senator Niluh Djelantik also condemned the incident, asserting that public spaces in Bali must not be exploited in a way that discriminates against its own people. In response to the backlash, Entourage Bali issued a public apology, claiming the bias was caused by a faulty automated system for their WhatsApp group. They stated that Indonesians actually represented nearly 25 percent of their ticket sales but admitted to making a mistake in the approval process. The club has since suspended all activities and operations pending a full evaluation.
The blacklisting serves as a stern warning amid a broader crackdown on foreigners misusing tourist visas. Authorities have reiterated that activities such as working, volunteering, or producing monetised online content while on a tourist visa can lead to arrest and deportation. The Australian government’s Smartraveller service has also updated its travel advice, warning citizens of the strict enforcement of visa conditions in Indonesia.