SOLUTIONS FOR RESIDENTS AROUND BALI TOURIST DESTINATIONS AFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC

SOLUTIONS FOR RESIDENTS AROUND BALI TOURIST DESTINATIONS AFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC

Corona’s Impact on the Economy in General

In mid-2020, the global community was deeply affected by the Corona Virus pandemic. The rapid transmission of the virus between humans has led to significant challenges for businesses and citizens worldwide. Indonesia is no exception, including tax consultants in Bali. The global impact of the corona virus has led to significant uncertainty across many aspects of our lives. The economic aspect of society is also affected, with a notable decline in economic turnover at all levels. Those in the middle and lower classes are the most affected by the multiplayer effect in this situation. In particular, those lacking business skills and social networks will find their situation worsened if no constructive and solution-oriented steps are taken.

 

Bali and the World’s Torn Tourism Destination

Bali, one of Indonesia’s provinces, is widely recognized as a world-class tourist destination. Its appeal is widely known across the globe, as evidenced by the recent visit of King Salman of Saudi Arabia, who took the time to visit Bali. There is a well-known anecdote in the business world. When an Indonesian travels abroad, a local resident in the foreign country will often ask, “Where are you from?” The Indonesian will typically reply, “I am from Indonesia.” What was the subsequent response from the foreigner? The foreigner replied, “Oh, Bali. Yes, I am familiar with Bali.” This is clear evidence that Bali is a truly global destination. Bali is part of Indonesia, a significant contributor to the country’s tourism industry, and a source of national pride. However, the pandemic had a significant impact on Bali’s tourist destinations.

Large-scale Social Restrictions

Outside of Indonesia, such as in Europe and America, we are familiar with lockdowns, Indonesia also enforces regulations regarding Large-Scale Social Restrictions. This is done as a form of state protection to protect the nation. To break the chain of the spread of this malignant and very deadly virus. The government quickly and responsively carries out its duties from the center to the regions to avoid the large number of infected people and casualties due to the Corona virus or what we know as Covid-19.

Large-scale Social Restrictions and National Attractions

Since the implementation of the Large-Scale Social Restrictions, there has been a significant reduction in the mobility of individuals, including tax consultants in Bali. This has resulted in a notable decline in the number of tourists visiting the area, leading to a reduction in the workforce at many tourist attractions. Additionally, the supply of food for animals in zoos has been limited, leaving many animals stranded. The national tourist attraction suffered a significant impact during the pandemic, and even after the implementation of the New Normal, it has not yet fully recovered.

Bali Tourism Objects are Severely Affected

The pandemic had a significant impact on tourist attractions across the archipelago, including Bali. Bali is known as the largest foreign tourist destination, and even domestic tourists were recorded as extraordinary during normal conditions. However, the island’s tourism industry was affected by the pandemic, with many tourist attractions closed or operating at reduced capacity. It is logical to conclude that, even movement between cities is not permitted. Do you recall the homecoming momentum of Lebaran 2020 and 2021? A number of travellers were forced to turn back their vehicles mid-journey. This has had a significant impact on Bali’s tourism industry, with many tourists unable to visit the island’s key attractions. The government’s actions are not misguided. This is a global pandemic. In the current circumstances, even if the government permits tourism to destinations like Bali, it is uncertain whether tourists will visit, as their primary concern is life safety. In our view, even the most effective promotional activities, including free offers, will not necessarily result in increased tourist numbers. This is because, in the current circumstances, many tourists will choose to remain in their home regions.

 

This is not a matter of foreign exchange

It is widely acknowledged that tourist attractions represent one of the country’s most significant sources of foreign exchange. However, there is a perception that the state places a greater emphasis on the safety of the nation’s population. While this may result in a reduction in foreign exchange from this sector, it is recognized that this is a global issue, with the current situation being a pandemic. The significant value of foreign exchange from this sector will not dissuade state officials from prioritizing the safety of their nation. Therefore, we believe that this is not a dilemma for the state. The implementation of the Large-Scale Social Restrictions is a tangible step by the state, with full confidence that everything will recover. Tourist attractions should rest, as foreign exchange will be returned if the outbreak has left.

Utilizing the Potential of Tourism in Pandemic Situations

As citizens of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, we are a nation that strives with the same determination as our predecessors, aiming to contribute positively to this country. Everyone hopes that the community groups most affected by the current situation can rise again with a new spirit that is always awake to fight as hard as possible to achieve a brighter future. There is no despair in even the toughest situations. For those engaged in the tourism industry, it is clear that they desire a space for progress in which togetherness, kinship, innovation, and creativity can be fostered. This should be done in a manner that always refers to the noble values of this nation. It is widely acknowledged that people want those around them to have more knowledge, creative power, performance, competitiveness, access to information, recognition of potential and the ability to innovate. It is widely believed that if this is the case, then all the gifts of the Almighty can be managed properly, starting from our smallest environment.

In the field of tourism in Bali, a situational development strategy with careful planning, referencing tourism travel statistics, is required. What aspects of tourism should be preserved in a situation like this? This is conveyed with the aim of fostering the enthusiasm and motivation of the community in the vicinity of tourism sites to continue to develop and progress, even in the most challenging circumstances. The optimal approach is to meticulously identify issues at all stages and aspects of life that are affected. The community will be able to identify and capitalize on opportunities, market their products effectively, expand their networks and empower themselves and others. By taking advantage of these opportunities, they will be able to achieve more than they could have imagined. It is often the case that communities situated in close proximity to tourist sites are renowned for their innovative products and high levels of creativity. This is an important factor that can be leveraged as a selling point for people outside the immediate vicinity of Bali’s tourist attractions. In particular, if the product in question is economically efficient, the potential for generating revenue can be significantly greater than what is typically achieved through the utilization of the crowds of visitors to Bali tourism.

A Simulation

For instance, a Balinese bead merchant who operates from a stall on Kuta Beach has a relatively small space. When tourist numbers are high, traders can easily sell hundreds or even thousands of beads in a day. Furthermore, tourists who leave their goods or vehicles at merchant’s place may give money for free. It would appear that a bead trader could reasonably expect to make one million rupiah per day, which is a considerable sum of money. Imagine a scenario where there are no visitors at all. What steps should be taken in such a situation?

Innovation and Creativity

In light of the ongoing pandemic, it is more important than ever for businesses to embrace innovation and creativity in their sales strategies. It is time to rethink how we sell and how we shop. The current situation provides an opportunity to embrace online sales as a solution. It is crucial to build a strong business spirit with the concept of effectiveness and efficiency at the core of all business processes. From the outset, the business process must be more valuable, innovative and, of course, economically efficient. It is crucial for individuals to recognize the obstacles inherent in every potential avenue. By doing so, they can continue to pursue this new direction with the same dedication and creativity they have always shown. The challenge can be mitigated by focusing on the individual and the wider community.

Starting a New Business Pattern

It is challenging for those accustomed to the traditional business model, particularly those in industries with high tourist traffic, to adapt to a new business pattern. Even the simple act of pushing a bicycle can be remunerated. The current business pattern requires specific skills, capital and social networks. However, with the right approach and dedication, anything is possible.

In light of the aforementioned circumstances, it is recommended that the following course of action be taken:

  1. It is important to recognize the value, uniqueness and potential for sale of the products found in tourist sites. Ensure that this message is clearly understood and instilled in the minds of all relevant parties.
  2. It is important to begin developing sales skills with new patterns.
  3. Consider the flow of production from upstream to downstream, from the selection of raw material sources to the delivery process. Please note that it is now the community that must deliver, as tourist numbers are down.
  4. It is advisable to establish partnerships with key stakeholders in the local community who have a forward-thinking mindset and empowerment goals.
  5. Begin by focusing on the local market closest to you.
  6. Continue to develop new business skills.
  7. It is advisable to develop the habit of recording activities.
  8. Continue to strive for the recovery of Bali’s tourism conditions until such time as they are fully restored.

The following are some potential solutions for people around Bali tourist sites, including some tax consultants in Bali affected by the pandemic. There are numerous avenues that can be pursued, but it ultimately comes down to how we react to the situation. I would like to reassure you that you are not alone in this situation. I would like to extend my congratulations on your ability to work with a new pattern. This is an opportunity to gain new knowledge, even when conditions have recovered. This pattern will continue to be useful in the future.