Mangupura Discussion Urges Bali Tourism to Protect Culture

Mangupura — A discussion in Mangupura on Nov. 5, 2026, cited Bali’s 5,82 percent economic growth while calling for cultural and social sustainability to be weighed alongside tourism performance.

Agus Maha Usadha, chairman of Nawa Cita Pariwisata Indonesia Bali, said tourism supports the economy but also affects the social, customary and cultural life of Balinese communities. The discussion argued that growth should remain rooted in living local culture rather than reduce residents to service providers separated from their customary roles.

The warning followed a broader concern that culture could be treated as a commercial product for visitors while local people lose their position as owners and custodians of tradition. The proposed approach would give residents a continuing role in shaping tourism and preserving cultural life.

Why Bali’s tourism model matters to visitors

For foreign visitors, the debate means that Bali’s tourism identity is being framed not only around visitor numbers or economic returns. Cultural experiences are expected to remain connected to communities, villages, customary institutions and everyday practices. Visitors may therefore encounter a stronger emphasis on respectful participation and on tourism that supports local welfare without displacing local authority.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of giving younger Balinese opportunities to compete globally without losing their cultural roots. It called for closer attention to the relationship among tourism, customary life, villages and residents in research and future development planning.

The reports said collaboration among academics, government officials, customary leaders, artists, religious figures and tourism businesses could help connect economic development with cultural sustainability. No specific new regulation or implementation timetable was stated.

Sources

• NusaBali — Bali news report
• mangupuranews.com