Indonesia's immigration authorities have deported two Dutch nationals from Bali, citing violations of immigration laws and allegations that their running club discriminated against local residents. The expatriate-focused group, Entourage Bali, faced significant backlash after testimonies emerged online suggesting it had rejected Indonesian applicants while accepting foreigners for its events.
The two Dutchmen, aged 35 and 37, departed Bali for Singapore before the ban was officially announced and are now barred from re-entering Indonesia. This action comes amid growing tensions on the popular tourist island between a rising number of digital nomads and local communities.
Authorities stated that the men violated immigration laws by organizing the running event without the necessary permits. The controversy has reignited anger among some on the island who perceive certain foreigners as acting with entitlement and forming exclusive communities. Bali Governor I Wayan Koster has pledged to take strict measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In response to the accusations, Entourage Bali issued a statement asserting that its run clubs are open to all, including non-digital nomads, and that Indonesians constituted nearly 25% of the participants in their events. The group attributed the alleged rejections to errors in an automated approval process for its chat groups, which they claim incorrectly excluded some Indonesian numbers. Entourage Bali stated its purpose is to foster a community for digital nomads new to the island, helping them connect and engage in activities. The group has announced a pause in all its events and promised to implement changes moving forward.