In an effort to tighten immigration control and improve the safety of Bali’s thriving tourism industry, the Ngurah Rai Airport Immigration Office has launched a new cyber unit. The unit aims to bolster surveillance of foreign nationals and proactively detect any violations of immigration regulations, particularly those that could impact public order.

The cyber unit, which is still in its early stages, focuses on monitoring online platforms, including social media and electronic media, to track behaviors that might violate immigration laws. According to Suhendra, the head of the immigration office, this initiative represents the office's commitment to adapting to technological advancements and the increasing use of digital communication channels by foreign nationals.

"Surveillance of foreign nationals must be proactive," Suhendra stated. "Our goal is to identify violations early by monitoring media, which will allow us to take timely actions before issues escalate."

Already, the unit has proven effective, identifying and addressing four cases of residence permit misuse, which led to deportations. The success of this unit aligns with Bali’s ongoing efforts to manage the influx of foreign tourists and ensure compliance with its immigration laws.

From January to October 2024, the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office processed more than 11.7 million travelers, with 5.36 million foreign nationals arriving in Bali. The office recorded a significant number of immigration violations, leading to the deportation of 159 foreign nationals, including individuals from Nigeria, Russia, China, the United States, and Australia. The most common violations included overstaying and misuse of residence permits.

As Bali continues to be a popular destination for international visitors, the creation of this cyber unit highlights the importance of using technology to maintain order and safety. The Ngurah Rai Immigration Office’s forward-thinking approach serves as a model for other regions seeking to address the complexities of modern immigration challenges.

With international tourism expected to continue growing, the office's proactive monitoring efforts are likely to play a vital role in ensuring that Bali remains a safe and welcoming destination for travelers while safeguarding the interests of local communities.