Bali Drivers‘ Forum Stages Peaceful Protest at DPRD; WNA Pick-up Phenomenon at Ngurah Rai Airport Sparks Concern
In a display of unity, drivers from the Bali Pariwisata Driver Forum gathered peacefully outside the Bali DPRD building on Monday, January 6, 2025, airing various grievances. Among their primary concerns was the phenomenon of foreign nationals (WNA) picking up tourists at Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport in Badung.
Wayan Widiasa, a conventional driver participating in the action, questioned the role of immigration authorities. He expressed his surprise and disappointment, saying, "Tourists being picked up by other tourists, it’s like Indonesians eating durians while foreigners watch. Where’s immigration in all this?"
Widiasa also raised the issue of police inaction during traffic congestion on Bali’s roads. He noticed that drivers stuck in traffic jams rarely receive any police assistance for traffic management.
"The question is not about fancy cars or motorbikes; it’s about ensuring our safety and comfort. There are law enforcement officers passing by the congestion, yet they remain silent," Widiasa underscored his plea.
DPRD Bali Chairperson Dewa Made Mahayadnya acknowledged and responded to the drivers’ aspirations and complaints. He plans to dispatch Komisi I and II of the DPRD for a surprise inspection at the airport regarding the ‘tourist pick-up’ issue. "We will visit the airport ourselves, along with Komisi I, III, and the frak
Related reading