Two Dutch organizers of a popular Bali running club have been banned from Indonesia following accusations that their group excluded local residents. The group, known as Entourage Bali, organized early morning "silent disco" runs that attracted numerous foreigners.
The controversy escalated after screenshots, allegedly from the group's communications, began circulating online. These images appeared to show Indonesian applicants being rejected from the club. One purported direct message exchange suggested an applicant was denied entry because they were Indonesian, with the organizer stating the group was a "platform for digital nomads."
Another alleged incident described an Indonesian woman's application being put under review, while her husband's application, submitted with a Western-sounding name and phone number, was approved quickly. These claims sparked widespread backlash, leading to accusations of discrimination.
Bali's Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, condemned the event, stating that it was suspected of violating regulations and being discriminatory. He announced that immigration authorities would ban the two foreign nationals involved from re-entering Indonesia. The men, identified by initials JAS, 35, and HQV, 37, and widely known online as Joost Storms and Hidde van Vliet, reportedly departed Bali for Singapore and have since been placed on Indonesia's travel ban list.
Entourage Bali issued a public apology, expressing regret for those who felt offended or hurt and denying any intent to be disrespectful or discriminatory. The organizers stated the group was founded to help digital nomads connect and socialize in Bali, and that Indonesians represented a significant portion of their members and ticket sales. They acknowledged that mistakes were made with their automated WhatsApp group approval process, leading to some Indonesian applicants being incorrectly rejected.
The group has paused all events and activities and promised to implement changes. The incident occurs amidst a broader crackdown by Indonesian authorities on foreigners accused of misusing tourist visas for work or business activities in Bali. Australian government travel advisories caution travelers to strictly adhere to Indonesian visa regulations, warning that working or conducting commercial activities on a tourist visa is illegal.