Bali Governor Reinforces Rule on Balinese Script for Business Signs

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has reiterated the rule requiring the use of Balinese script on business signs. Speaking at the closing ceremony of Balinese Language Month 2025, he emphasized that using the local script is essential for strengthening the island’s culture and preserving its historical heritage.

“I introduced this rule to ensure that streets, public spaces, and offices use Balinese script. However, not everyone follows it—many still ignore it. In my second term as governor, I will be stricter about this. During my first term, especially during COVID-19, I couldn’t enforce it strictly because people were already struggling,” he said.

Koster pointed to other countries, such as China, Japan, Korea, and Thailand, which preserve their written heritage, and stressed that Bali, as part of Indonesia, must also protect and use its own script.

“This is not just about strengthening Balinese culture but also about preserving our entire traditional way of life—it’s a crucial part of our identity. Bali has a unique, outstanding, and well-preserved culture, and in this regard, I am confident that no one can surpass us,” he declared.

To promote the use of Balinese script and cultural preservation, Koster has begun visiting business associations. He recently attended a regional working meeting of the Association of Indonesian Travel Agencies (Asita), where he urged tourism industry representatives to support and respect Balinese culture, which is the foundation of tourism on the island.

“Without culture, tourism in Bali is impossible. Until now, culture has driven tourism, but tourism itself has not done enough to support cultural development,” he noted.

Preserving Balinese culture, including its script, also involves maintaining and developing traditional villages (desa adat), which play a key role in protecting cultural heritage. According to Koster, the existence of these villages is crucial, and various regulations have been enacted to safeguard them and support their role in cultural preservation.

Under Decree No. 80/2018, Balinese script must be used alongside Latin script on signs in government institutions and public spaces.

Sources: infodenpasar, antara