The Indonesian local government is enforcing severe regulations prohibiting visitors’ usage of cryptocurrency in an effort to control financial activities within Bali, a well-known tourist destination. On May 28, Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster delivered this message to the local media.
Tourists Unhappy with Bali’s Crypto Payment Prohibition
Bali Governor Wayan Koster stated that visitors who use cryptocurrency to make payments or break other rules risk being deported, prosecuted, or subject to harsh sanctions. He made this statement during a press conference on tourism development on Sunday.
Prohibition Divides People in Half
The crypto community responded in a variety of ways, with some claiming that the ban “makes sense” and others threatening to avoid the popular tourist destination in the future. A community member on Reddit expressed their opinion that it “should be up to businesses and customers” to decide on the method of payment.
Governor Koster Equates Crypto Use with Narcotics
Indicating the severity with which the government sees this issue, Governor Koster highlighted severe sanctions for offenders, virtually equating the use of digital assets with drug use.
Foreign tourists who behave inappropriately, do activities that are not allowed in their visa permit, use crypto as a means of payment, and violate other provisions will be dealt with firmly […] Strict actions range from deportation, administrative sanctions, criminal penalties, closure of business premises, and other tough sanctions.
Koster
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