An Australian yoga instructor has been deported from Bali and banned from re-entering Indonesia after organizing what authorities deemed an illegal retreat. Peter Radcliffe, 55, from Perth, was arrested for operating a seven-day "Inner Growth" event at the luxurious Villa Boreh in Buleleng, north Bali.
Immigration officials stated that Radcliffe entered Indonesia on a Visa on Arrival (VOA), which is designated solely for tourism and not for employment. This violation led to the ruling that his retreat arrangement was illegal. The VOA was valid until August 24, extending beyond the retreat's scheduled end date of August 2.
Following his arrest, Radcliffe was deported back to Perth and is now prohibited from returning to Indonesia. He promoted himself as a life coach and meditation teacher, describing himself as the "father and founder" of Skillful MIND, the organization behind the retreats. His website indicated he had traveled extensively, teaching meditation and mind mastery.
Balinese immigration authorities emphasized their zero-tolerance policy towards foreigners violating immigration laws. Anak Agung Gde Kusuma Putra, Head of the Singaraja Immigration Office, stated that all foreign nationals are required to possess visas and stay permits that align with their visit's purpose. He added that those who disregard regulations must either comply or depart the country.
The Director General of Immigration has reportedly instructed all offices to enforce immigration laws strictly. Indonesian Immigration aims to welcome tourists and investors but will take action against those who fail to adhere to the country's regulations. 
