BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR – The Bali Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration is awaiting an official directive from the central government regarding the proposed involvement of immigration authorities in the foreign tourist levy (PWA) scheme in the province.

Head of the Bali Regional Office, Felucia Sengky Ratna, stated that regional offices are not authorized to make independent decisions on the matter without clear instructions from central leadership.

“Regarding the proposal to involve immigration in the foreign tourist levy, we at the regional level are still waiting for policy direction from the central government. We cannot make decisions independently without official instructions,” she said.

Felucia explained that the policy is cross-sectoral in nature, requiring coordination and comprehensive assessment among various related institutions. As such, the regional immigration office continues to await formal guidance.

She added that the Directorate General of Immigration at the central level is still formulating the policy, taking into account multiple aspects, including potential impacts.

“This is not a simple policy. It requires careful consideration, thorough analysis, and special attention to ensure effective implementation,” she noted.

According to her, if the foreign tourist levy policy is eventually implemented, it is expected to bring positive impacts for both immigration authorities and the local government, particularly in supporting tourism management in Bali.

As of now, no final decision has been made regarding immigration’s role in the levy scheme, and all parties remain on standby pending an official policy from the central government.