In brief
Indonesia’s immigration authorities have barred two Dutch expats from Bali after the Entourage Bali run club, promoted to digital nomads, allegedly screened out Indonesian applicants and ran a prohibited event. The event, marketed as a ‘disco run’, drew backlash when users reported being rejected based on their name and telephone number. In response, authorities detained the club’s organisers for violating immigration regulations and suspended the club’s operations, while Governor I Wayan Koster vowed stricter enforcement against foreign-run activities.
Indonesia’s immigration authorities have banned two Dutch nationals for organising an illegal running event that allegedly discriminated against local Indonesians.
The event, promoted by the expatriate‑focused group Entourage Bali, attracted criticism after social media posts claimed the club rejected Indonesian applicants while accepting foreigners.
The two Dutch men, aged 35 and 37, left Bali for Singapore before the ban was announced and will not be allowed back to Indonesia.
Bali, a favourite of digital nomads, has seen growing friction between expats and locals. The allegations of discrimination have intensified calls for greater regulation of foreign‑run activities.
Bali Governor I Wayan Koster pledged "strict action" to prevent similar incidents.
Immigration officials said the organisers violated laws by holding a run without permits.
Entourage Bali defended its policy, stating the club was "open for everyone, including non‑digital nomads" and that it serves as a community for newcomers on the island.
However, it also admitted that “errors in the automated approval process” incorrectly rejected some Indonesian registrations.
The organisers announced a pause on all events and pledged “real changes going forward.”
Additional reporting by Liza Tambunan in Jakarta.
