Bali Punishes Foreigners Not Wearing Face Masks with Push-Ups

Bali Punishes Foreigners Not Wearing Face Masks with Push-Ups

Those not donning a mask had to do up to 50 push-ups, while those wearing it unacceptably had to do 15.

Bali metes out a rather unconventional punishment for foreigners caught not wearing masks in public – push-ups. 

The Indonesian island known for its sheer natural beauty has made it mandatory for residents to wear a mask when stepping out of the house. This rule was implemented sometime last year as the pandemic cuts a swath through the country. The government has deployed officers from various institutions to see to it that residents abide by the rule.

As of date, Indonesia has reported a staggering 939 948 cases of COVID-19 and 26 857 fatalities from the disease.  Due to mounting COVID-19 cases, Bali takes mask-wearing very seriously! 

According to security official Gusti Agung Ketut Suryanegara, a handful of foreigners have been caught without a face mask in the past few days. While some were subjected to a fine of 100,000 rupiah (S$9.45), others were made to do push-ups. The latter was laid open to those who were unable to pay the fine. 

Images of foreigners carrying out their punishments have been making the rounds on social media. 

So, how many push-ups are they required to carry out? Those not donning a mask had to do up to 50 push-ups, while those wearing it unacceptably had to do 15. It seems locals are not spared from this penalty, as well. However, Suryanegara added that foreigners make up the majority of those caught breaching Bali’s coronavirus health protocols. 

Bali’s authorities have made it clear that foreigners who violate COVID-19 regulations risk getting deported. In spite of that, no foreigners have been forced to leave the country as a result of failing to wear a mask. 

The Public Order Agency in Bali has reported an estimated 15,000 offences since the enforcement of mask-wearing in the region.

Also read: Hot Springs in Bali: The Best 7

Situation in Bali

Bali has long been a tourist hotspot. However, the island has not opened its borders to foreign tourists, with the exception of essential business travel. Foreigners living in other parts of Indonesia are still permitted to enter Bali.

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Ifah Sakinah
Ifah Sakinah

Sakinah has a discerning palate and an innate desire to satisfy her inner curiosity. While she hasn't been everywhere, it's definitely on her list.

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