“Improved flight access is a key factor in boosting foreign tourist arrivals, while supporting the development of quality tourism in Bali,” Bali Governor Wayan Koster said.
Bali and the Kingdom of Thailand are actively exploring stronger strategic cooperation spanning tourism, healthcare services, and environmental management, according to Tempo.co. Governor Koster made the remarks while receiving Thai Ambassador to Indonesia Prapan Disyatat in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Direct flight connectivity remains a central focus for both governments. Ambassador Prapan Disyatat said that non-stop air routes between Thailand and Bali are vital for encouraging travel between the two nations and enhancing bilateral relations.
As of October 2026, around 32,000 tourists from Thailand visited Bali. That figure is projected to reach 38 thousand by the end of the year.
The Bali Provincial Government continues to restructure the tourism sector to achieve quality and sustainable tourism. This overhaul includes strengthening supervision and law enforcement against foreign tourists who commit violations.
Foreign tourists violating immigration regulations face administrative sanctions, including deportation. Criminal offenses are processed under applicable laws. Thai tourists have remained compliant while vacationing in Bali.
Beyond traditional sightseeing, the two sides discussed medical collaboration. Thailand is exploring cooperation opportunities in healthcare services and medical tourism at the Sanur Special Economic Zone, including the potential for developing plastic surgery services.
Applauding Governor Koster’s administration, the diplomat also highlighted Bali’s clean air and tranquil environment as perfect conditions for healing. Thailand is exploring cooperation opportunities in waste management technology to support sustainable solutions for environmental issues.
Bali is simultaneously stepping up its own environmental management through a waste-to-energy facility. Work on the island’s WtE plant began in July 2026, and the installation is anticipated to handle a maximum of 1,500 tons of garbage per day.
Over 40 thousand Thai citizens traveled to Indonesia throughout 2025.
