DENPASAR, BNEWSID.COM – The Bali chapter of the Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) is intensifying preparations for the upcoming Bali Tourism Run 2026 following an official audience with Bali Governor I Wayan Koster at Jaya Sabha, Denpasar, on Monday (April 6).

The meeting marked a strategic step toward welcoming the 100th anniversary of Bali’s tourism, while also introducing a new concept of experience-based travel that brings visitors closer to nature and culture.

ASITA Bali Chairman, Putu Winastra, highlighted a significant shift in travel trends. According to him, Bali is no longer seen merely as a destination for relaxation, but increasingly as a place for dynamic activities such as sports—particularly running.

“Recently, tourists come to Bali not just to unwind, but also to stay active and experience firsthand the landscapes they once only saw in passing,” he said.

The concept of “running tourism” is viewed as a fresh approach to exploring destinations. Through this activity, visitors can directly engage with Bali’s natural and cultural surroundings, from traditional villages and rice fields to scenic trails unique to the island.

As an initial step, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces has been selected as the inaugural venue for the Bali Tourism Run. Known for its stunning terraced rice fields, the area represents the harmonious relationship between people, nature, and Balinese traditions.

Carrying the theme “Begin The Journey from Jatiluwih,” the event will emphasize not only the start and finish lines but also the immersive experience along the route. Moving forward, the initiative is designed as a continuous series that will rotate across various destinations in Bali, each offering its own unique character and story.

“This is not just a one-time event, but a long journey that will continue to grow year by year,” Winastra added.

Bali Tourism Run 2026 will feature 5K and 10K race categories open to both professional runners and the general public. The inclusive concept is expected to attract broad participation while delivering a more personal travel experience.

Beyond sports and tourism, the event is projected to generate direct economic benefits for local communities. The participation of thousands of runners is expected to stimulate small and medium enterprises (SMEs), accommodation providers, and culinary businesses around the event area.

Responding to the initiative, Governor Koster expressed his full support, noting that the concept aligns with Bali’s tourism development direction, which emphasizes a balance between visitor numbers and cultural preservation.

“Activities like this are essential for Bali. They not only attract tourists but also provide space for them to understand the island more comprehensively,” he stated.

Koster also underlined that running as a tourism approach allows visitors to build deeper connections with the destinations they explore, creating more authentic experiences.

He further emphasized the importance of selecting Jatiluwih as the starting point, citing its strong symbolic value in representing Bali’s identity rooted in culture and nature.

“Jatiluwih is not only beautiful, but it also carries values that must be preserved. Events like this must remain mindful of the environment, culture, and the comfort of local communities,” he stressed.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Koster expressed hope that Bali Tourism Run will evolve into a sustainable annual agenda that adds long-term value to Bali’s tourism sector.

By integrating sports, culture, and local economic empowerment, Bali Tourism Run 2026 is expected to become more than just a race, offering a holistic experience that reinforces Bali’s image as a world-class destination grounded in local wisdom. (*)