BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR — Claims about Israeli nationals allegedly living and investing in Bali, including allegations that some may have obtained Indonesian identity cards (KTP), have drawn public attention. The Bali Provincial Government said the information is currently being verified by the relevant authorities.

Bali Governor Wayan Koster said the provincial government is coordinating with immigration authorities and the relevant ministries to establish the facts and prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.

“It is currently being handled, particularly by Immigration and the relevant ministries. With this issue emerging, I will coordinate further to detect and anticipate such situations so they do not happen again, especially to ensure that the process of issuing identity cards follows the proper procedures,” Koster said at the Jayasaba Governor’s Official Residence in Denpasar on Friday (Aug. 14).

Koster explained that the provincial government has its own system for monitoring population administration. However, immigration matters and legal enforcement fall under the authority of the central government through the relevant ministries and agencies.

He said the Bali Provincial Government had not yet received an official written report regarding the allegations. Nevertheless, the administration is closely monitoring developments surrounding the issue, particularly information circulating on social media and in the media.

Asked whether the issue could affect Bali’s investment climate, Koster stressed that the government would seek to resolve the matter promptly and in accordance with applicable regulations.

He emphasized that matters concerning relations between countries fall under the authority of the central government. The responsibility of the regional government, he said, is to maintain a safe, comfortable and stable environment in Bali.

“The response is to improve the system. Matters concerning relations between countries are the responsibility of the central government. Our task at the regional level is to maintain a conducive social environment,” Koster said.

The issue emerged after information circulated widely on social media concerning the alleged activities of several Israeli nationals reportedly living in the Kerobokan area of Badung. The claims also raised allegations of potential violations of immigration and population-administration regulations.

However, the allegations have not been independently confirmed and remain subject to verification by the authorities.

Koster urged the public to remain calm and avoid being provoked by unverified information, while allowing the competent authorities to conduct the necessary checks and investigation.