Bali has officially achieved a complete economic recovery following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the tourism sector.
This affirmation comes from Kadek Agus Wirawan, the Acting Head of Bali’s Central Statistics Agency (Badan Pusat Statistik), who noted that the province has surpassed pre-pandemic tourism levels.
During an interview in Denpasar, Agus emphasized that international tourist arrivals from January to November 2023 reached 5,782,260, exceeding the 5,722,807 visitors recorded in 2019.
This increase of 59,453 visitors serves as a clear indicator of the strong recovery in Bali’s tourism sector.
However, Agus emphasized that while the tourism figures are encouraging, the overall economic recovery should not be evaluated solely through tourism metrics.
He pointed out that the recovery involves various facets of the economy, including significant advancements in employment.
As of August 2024, the number of employed individuals in Bali increased to 2.67 million, reflecting a rise of 47,600 jobs compared to August 2023.
This growth is particularly notable in the accommodation and food services sector, which has experienced the largest increase in employment. This highlights the essential role of tourism in Bali’s economic framework.
The hotel industry has also demonstrated recovery, with a reported occupancy rate of 66.34% in September 2024, reflecting a 3.12% increase from the 63.22% occupancy rate in September 2019, before the pandemic.
This rise in hotel occupancy is a positive indication that the tourism sector is regaining its footing and contributing to the island’s overall economic landscape.
In addition to tourism and employment gains, BPS Bali has identified other factors contributing to the province’s economic recovery.
One significant aspect is the effective distribution of social assistance, which reached 92.99% by October 2024. This support has been crucial in stabilizing the local economy and aiding those affected by the pandemic’s economic fallout.
Bali’s economy has shown a year-on-year growth rate of 5.43%, fueled by increased financial transactions and a rise in domestic and international tourist arrivals.
Agus emphasized that while the tourism sector is a crucial indicator of recovery, the broader economic landscape reflects a comprehensive resurgence across various sectors.
Bali’s recovery narrative stands as a testament to the resilience of its economy and the effectiveness of the measures implemented to support recovery in the aftermath of the pandemic. As the island continues attracting visitors and enhancing employment, it sets a positive example for other regions in Indonesia and beyond, striving for economic revitalization.
The collaborative efforts of the government, local businesses, and the community have been vital in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, paving the way for a brighter economic future for Bali.
