BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR – The Bali chapter of the Association of The Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA Bali) met Bali Governor Wayan Koster at Kerta Sabha Building in Denpasar to finalize preparations for the second Bali Tourism Run, which will be held in the Jatiluwih tourism area, Tabanan Regency, as part of the road toward Bali’s 100 Years of Tourism celebration in 2027.

The meeting, held on the second floor of the Governor’s official residence, was led by ASITA Bali Chairman I Putu Winastra, accompanied by board members and supporting stakeholders, including banking representatives, Bank Indonesia, the Financial Services Authority (OJK), ITDC, and regional government officials.

ASITA Bali Prepares Bali Tourism Run II in Jatiluwih After Meeting Governor Koster, Targets 4,000 Participants to Boost Tourism

Winastra said this year’s Bali Tourism Run marks the second edition after the successful inaugural event. He emphasized that the program is not only a sporting event, but also a strategic platform to promote Bali’s tourism destinations.

“ASITA oversees travel agencies, and our task is to sell destination products. Through this event, we want to expose and strengthen Bali’s tourism destinations,” he said.

He explained that Jatiluwih was selected as the venue because it is internationally recognized as one of Bali’s leading attractions and has received UNESCO recognition.

“Jatiluwih is already a world-famous destination. We want participants to see that this area is truly international-standard, safe, and worth visiting,” Winastra added.

ASITA Bali also plans to make Bali Tourism Run an annual event rotating across regencies and cities in Bali to introduce hidden gems and lesser-known tourism spots.

“We want it to be hosted in different regions every year so new destinations in Bali can gain more exposure,” he said.

Initially, organizers targeted 2,000 participants for this year’s event. However, after receiving input from Governor Koster, the target was increased to around 3,500 to 4,000 runners, including participants from outside Bali.

“Governor Koster encouraged us to involve more participants from outside Bali so the event can also increase tourist arrivals,” Winastra said.

Besides the running competition, the committee is preparing cultural performances and traditional Tabanan culinary attractions to provide participants with a complete Bali experience.

“After the race, there will be cultural shows and traditional cuisine, allowing domestic and international participants to enjoy Bali’s rich heritage,” he said.

Meanwhile, Governor Koster expressed full support for the event, saying it would serve as a stronger promotional tool for Bali tourism.

He also urged all sectors to contribute, including Bank Indonesia, BNI, BRI, Bank BPD Bali, OJK, accommodation providers, and the aviation industry.

Koster even suggested that ASITA cooperate with airlines to offer discounted flight tickets for runners joining the fun run in Jatiluwih.

Through the event, ASITA Bali hopes to increase domestic and international tourist arrivals while strengthening Bali’s image as a destination for sports, culture, and nature tourism.