A collection of Bali’s largest and most popular hotels have officially affirmed their dedication to promoting local Balinese products to their guests.
This decision is aligned with the Provincial Government’s objective of ensuring that the island’s distinct cultural heritage is not only preserved but also celebrated in all aspects of daily life.
Several hotels, including Legian Beach Hotel, Maya Sanur Resort and Spa, and Raffles Bali, have entered into a cooperative agreement with the Bali Hotel and Restaurant Association.
Under this commitment, each hotel will prioritize the use of Balinese produce throughout their supply chains and actively promote Balinese products to their guests.
Governor Koster has expressed his views, stating, “I also invite all tourism stakeholders in Bali to collaborate and progress together, finding happiness collectively, living in harmony, and reaping mutual benefits to ensure a harmonious world.”
He further encouraged hotel and tourism operators to make the most of the abundant resources available on the island.
The Governor emphasized that tourism providers should “utilize local Balinese products such as fruits, vegetables, and more to cater to our guests in hotels and restaurants. This collaboration signifies our joint efforts to develop tourism and the economy of Bali as a whole, in a sustainable manner.”
Many hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions already adhere to the cultural guidance provided by Governor Koster.
Legislation is in place in Bali, requiring public sector employees, tourism providers, students, and other businesses to wear traditional Balinese attire on Thursdays, as well as on sacred days like the new moon and full moon.
Additional hotels committed to incorporating Balinese produce and promoting Balinese culture include Toya Devasya Geopark Resort & Spa in Kintamani, situated near the sacred Mount Batur.
This commitment is also shared by Wapa Di Ume Ubud Resort & Spa, Ashyana Candidasa Beach Resort, The Royal Pita Maha, Tjampuhan & Restaurant Group, Kutus Kutus New Sunari Lovina Beach Resort in North Bali, and Pramana Natura Nusa Penida.
More and more hotels are coming forward to pledge their commitment to integrating and promoting Balinese produce in their business operations.
While some have not yet formally signed the commitment, many hotels and tourist attractions have established their own value systems to conserve and celebrate the island’s culture.
For instance, the Marriott Group, which operates resorts like the Four Seasons Sheraton in Seminyak and Courtyard by Marriott Seminyak, as well as Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has collaborated with Trisno Nugroho, Head of the Bank Indonesia Representative Office for Bali Province, to ensure the prominence of local produce in their tourism offerings.
Balinese produce is utilized whenever possible, be it in the food served at their restaurants, the beverages offered at their bars, the art displayed on their premises, or the materials used in constructing their buildings.
Recently, Ibu Putri Suastini Koster, the Governor’s wife, publicly expressed her desire to see a transition toward more organic farming practices across the island.
Ibu Koster believes that this shift will help preserve cultural values, enhance the health of local residents, and ultimately yield greater profits for farmers in the long run.
While the provincial government and tourism stakeholders are enthusiastic about promoting sustainable and culture-based tourism on the island, as demonstrated by the agreement signed by the hotel group, it is evident that tourists themselves are increasingly seeking experiential travel.
Travel data reveals that visitors to Bali aspire to engage in more than just relaxation, given the island’s wealth of attractions.
From jungle exploration to cultural workshops, traditional dance performances to art classes, there is a plethora of discoveries awaiting tourists on the enchanting Island of the Gods Bali.
