Aussie tourists told to “remain calm” over Bali bonking ban
Tourism officials in Bali are reassuring unmarried Aussie couples that they can still make love on the popular holiday island without being put behind bars.
It comes after media reports emerged last week, revealing Indonesia was looking to pass a new law that criminalises consensual sex outside marriage.
If passed, it would mean people who aren’t married would be banned from living together and could face jail time if they partake in extramarital sex.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Bali Hotels Association confirmed the passing of the bill had been indefinitely postponed by the Indonesian President, with the association urging tourists to “stay calm and enjoy Bali and all it has to offer”.
“The recommendation of the full regulations, including what is commonly mentioned as the “Adultery Act” is still a recommendation and has not yet formally issued and cannot be enforced,” the statement said.
“Based on various feedback, the President of The Republic of Indonesia and the Indonesian Parliament have agreed to indefinitely postpone the passing of the bill with those new regulations.”
There’s fears the news may have scared off some Aussie tourists, with the Bali Government now reassuring holidaymakers that everything is as normal.
“Bali Government office encourages all parties involved in tourism (i.e., persons visiting or planning to visit, as well as industry stakeholders) to stay calm and continue their activities (or planned activities) as usual.”
The Bali Hotels Association says it is continuing to monitor the issue and will “update its members and partners if there is any further information in regards to this matter.”
