Bali Governor Launches Waste Cleanup Movement to Tackle Island's Pollution

TheIndonesia.co - Bali Governor Wayan Koster has announced the official launch of the Bali Waste Cleanup Movement, scheduled to begin on April 11, 2025, with a clear objective of addressing the island’s growing waste problem. In a statement made on Sunday, Koster revealed that the initiative would bring together village heads, customary village representatives, district leaders, mayors, students, and local communities. The movement will be officially inaugurated by Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq.

According to Antara News Agency, Governor Koster emphasized the urgency of tackling waste management in Bali, stressing that this issue must be resolved without delay. He referenced the efforts of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who has placed a particular focus on resolving the waste problem in Bali, making it one of the nation's priority regions.

"We should not wait until the end of my second term. If possible, this waste problem must be resolved by the middle of the term," Koster stated, underscoring the need for immediate action.

The governor's direction included a regulation on waste management that involves all sectors of society, including businesses. He highlighted the importance of collective participation from all corners of Bali’s population, from residents to businesses, to tackle this environmental challenge.

Koster also pointed out that during his previous term, a regulation on waste management was already in place, alongside a ban on single-use plastics. However, the full implementation of these policies had not yet been achieved, largely due to the disruption caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic.

"Of course, the situation is better now because the central government is currently promoting the handling of the waste issue," he explained, noting that President Prabowo’s directive to accelerate waste management efforts is an encouraging development.

In preparation for the cleanup movement, the Bali Provincial Government has issued a circular that lays out specific rules and prohibitions for various sectors, including villages, customary villages, businesses, markets, places of worship, and educational institutions. This circular is part of a broader effort to streamline waste management practices across the island.

To encourage compliance and participation, Governor Koster has also introduced a system of rewards and sanctions. Those who demonstrate effective waste management practices will be rewarded, while those who fail to meet the established standards will face penalties. This approach aims to ensure that all stakeholders take responsibility for keeping Bali clean and sustainable.

With the official launch of the Bali Waste Cleanup Movement just around the corner, Governor Koster remains committed to making Bali a cleaner and more environmentally responsible destination, setting a vital example for other regions across Indonesia.