Nusa Penida launches convenient e-ticketing and tax system for tourists

Nusa Penida leaders have announced plans to introduce a new electronic ticketing and tax collection system on the island. The system aims to streamline payments for tourists visiting Nusa Penida.

The Nusa Penida tourism tax has been in effect for many years as an additional fee alongside the Bali tourism tax. The introduction of the new e-ticketing system is expected to simplify the payment process.

Chairman of Commission III DPRD Klungkung, I Nengah Arya Priyadnya, spoke about the upcoming system, expressing strong support from council members. He stressed that the change to electronic levies aims to prevent fund mismanagement, which was a concern with cash payments in the past.

"The purpose of implementing this electronic system is to minimize leaks and maximize regional basic income (PAD)," Priyadnya explained.

He highlighted that with the electronic tracking of the Nusa Penida tourism tax, more funds can be allocated for island development. "The electronic system makes it easier to monitor and manage the levy. The increased revenue can lead to expanded infrastructure projects that benefit both locals and tourists," Priyadanya said.

The move aims to ensure that tourists pay the Nusa Penida tourism tax immediately upon arrival, thereby contributing to local development efforts. Investment in infrastructure such as electricity, mobile networks, broadband and roads is vital to support the growing tourism sector in Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

Unlike the Bali tourism tax of IDR 150,000 (USD 10), the Nusa Penida tourism tax is set at IDR 25,000 (USD 1.50), payable at the port or through the new e-ticketing system to be implemented soon.

The Klungkung agency has partnered with a third-party service provider to launch this e-ticketing and payment solution, aiming to collect IDR 24.8 billion (USD 1.4 million) in 2024, up from IDR 17.7 billion (USD 1.04 million) in 2023.

While the Bali tourism tax faced some resistance, tourists have generally accepted the smaller levy for Nusa Penida. Local stakeholders, such as tourism activist Made Mertyana, support the levy if the funds are dedicated to improving local infrastructure and attractions.

Nusa Penida leaders have long been looking for ways to raise revenue for island development. Starting July 1, 2023, tourists visiting the Nusa Penida Marine Conservation Area for activities such as snorkeling and diving are required to purchase an e-ticket confirming payment of the Nusa Penida retaliation tax.

Travelers should expect to show proof of payment or pay a levy before embarking on marine activities in these protected waters.