Agencies in Bali have announced that two Dutch nationals, aged 35 and 37, are prohibited from re‑entering Indonesia after they organised a running event that was held without the required permits. The club, called Entourage Bali and aimed at digital nomads, faced backlash when reports surfaced that it had preferred foreign applicants over Indonesian ones.
The run, advertised as a “disco run”, drew criticism after a woman posted that her application was delayed because of her Indonesian name and number, while her spouse with a western name was accepted immediately. Immigration officials said the club’s automated system had erroneously rejected Indonesian numbers, but they also argued that the event operated like a “state within a state” and violated local rules.
In a statement, Entourage Bali said it was open to all, including Indonesian members, who make up about a quarter of its tickets, and it has paused all events pending reforms. Governor I Wayan Koster pledged strict action to prevent similar incidents.
The ban reflects rising concerns about the growth of digital nomad communities in Bali and the perception that foreigners are creating exclusive spaces at the expense of locals. Police and immigration officials have warned that illegally organised commercial activities will face stricter penalties.
