Vincentius Alvin Yoga
May 20, 2026
Bali is stepping up its immigration oversight efforts with the launch of a new special task force, community-based monitoring programs, and a technology-driven surveillance system aimed at maintaining safety and public order across the island.
The initiatives come as authorities respond to growing concerns over illegal activities involving foreign nationals, while also working to preserve Bali’s reputation as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations. Officials emphasize that the measures are not intended to alarm visitors, but rather to strengthen security, improve coordination, and ensure that tourism in Bali remains safe and respectful for both locals and travelers.
New Dharma Dewata Task Force Begins Patrols Across Bali
The Directorate General of Immigration has officially inaugurated a new immigration task force known as the Dharma Dewata Task Force at the Puputan Margarana Niti Mandala Renon Field in Denpasar this week.
The team consists of hundreds of immigration officers who will focus on patrols in tourism hotspots and monitor immigration violations that may threaten public order and safety. Officers have also been trained to respond quickly to potential violations in the field and will work alongside Bali Police and traditional Balinese security teams, known as Pecalang.
Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko said the formation of the task force reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining security and stability in Bali. “This is a concrete step to maintain stability and security in Bali as Indonesia’s leading tourist destination,” he said.
According to Marantoko, the Dharma Dewata Task Force will conduct routine patrols, particularly in areas with large numbers of foreign visitors such as Canggu and Uluwatu. The unit will also serve as a rapid response team for immigration-related violations. “We will continue to intensify surveillance operations, both through routine patrols at the regional level and nationally, to maintain security stability and increase public trust in Immigration,” he added.
Community-Based Immigration Monitoring Introduced
Alongside the new task force, Indonesian Immigration has also introduced a new community-based initiative called Village Guidance Immigration Officers, or PIMPASA.
The program involves village officials and community leaders in monitoring the presence and activities of foreigners within local communities. PIMPASA officers will focus on prevention efforts through education, awareness campaigns, and information gathering.
Authorities believe the collaboration between the Dharma Dewata Task Force’s field patrols and PIMPASA’s regional monitoring system will create a more comprehensive immigration oversight network across Bali. Marantoko noted that immigration challenges are becoming increasingly complex due to the rise in globalization, tourism, and foreign investment.
“Therefore, professionalism, integrity, and solid coordination between all relevant elements are required,” Marantoko explained. He also reminded officers to carry out their duties responsibly while maintaining a humanistic approach in law enforcement.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Bali Governor Wayan Koster, who stressed that firm action must be taken against foreigners found violating Indonesian law or disrupting public safety. “If the identification has been carried out and a violation of the law is found, it can be immediately processed by immigration with deportation or other forms of punishment,” Koster stated.
He added that the stricter measures are necessary following a series of recent incidents involving foreign nationals that have affected public comfort and security in Bali.
Bali Also Launched Digital Foreigner Surveillance System
In addition to the new patrol units, Bali authorities have also introduced a technology-based monitoring platform called Cakra Foreigner Surveillance, or Cakrawasi, recently.
The integrated system, launched by Bali Police, connects data from accommodation providers and government authorities to monitor the presence and activities of foreign nationals throughout the island. Officials say the platform is designed to improve oversight, prevent legal violations, and support a safer tourism environment.
The initiative also includes the establishment of the Cakrawasi Command Center and the Mandala Krisna Gallery under the Intelligence and Security Directorate (Ditintelkam) of Bali Police.
Authorities say the digital platform aims to close security gaps, including cases involving forged or multiple passports used to exploit weaknesses in tourism administration. The system also modernizes Indonesia’s long-standing guest reporting requirements for accommodation providers.
With the increasing mobility of international travelers, officials acknowledge there are growing risks related to legal violations and security concerns that may impact both residents and visitors. The new system is expected to help authorities respond more quickly to incidents and minimize illegal activities involving foreign nationals.
The latest initiatives also come as Bali addresses recent international travel advisories, including concerns raised by South Korea and Canada regarding safety issues and scams on the island.
For most tourists visiting Bali, however, there is little reason for concern. Authorities emphasize that the majority of foreign visitors respect local laws and culture. Travelers may simply notice a stronger security presence in popular tourism areas, including immigration officers, police personnel, and local security teams conducting patrols and occasional spot checks.
Tourists are also reminded to carry their passport and stay permit at all times, or at least keep copies available, in case officials request identification during inspections.
