Bali's 2024 Election: Candidates and Visions for the Future

As Bali gears up for the gubernatorial election on November 27, 2024, two prominent candidates are vying for the chance to shape the island’s future. This election highlights critical issues facing Bali, from infrastructure development to sustainable tourism and environmental management. Here’s a breakdown of the candidates, their platforms, and what’s at stake in this significant regional election. 

The Candidates 

Wayan Koster – The Incumbent with a Track Record of Development 

Representing the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), Wayan Koster is running alongside his deputy, Nyoman Giri Prasta. Koster’s tenure as governor has focused on tackling Bali’s infrastructure needs. A major highlight of his platform is the proposed MRT (mass rapid transit) system, which aims to reduce traffic congestion in Bali, particularly in the capital, Denpasar. Traffic is a pressing issue that affects both local residents and the island’s robust tourism sector, and Koster’s MRT project reflects his commitment to modernizing Bali’s urban infrastructure. 

Additionally, Koster’s campaign emphasizes improving water management and waste disposal systems, as the island faces growing environmental challenges. His administration has been active in launching projects targeting urban infrastructure. He is leveraging this track record to appeal to voters looking for continued progress in these areas. The PDI-P has long been a dominant force, and Koster’s team is hopeful that this stronghold will support his re-election. 

Made Muliawan Arya (De Gadjah) – The Challenger with a Nationalist Approach 

Made Muliawan Arya, also called De Gadjah, is supported by the Onward Indonesia Coalition backing President Prabowo Subianto. His campaign focuses on to preserving Bali’s culture and ensuring that tourism remains sustainable and beneficial for Balinese communities. He has voiced concerns about tourism development benefiting foreign investors over local residents and advocates for policies that safeguard Bali’s local culture and resources. 

De Gadjah’s platform resonates with voters who are wary of large-scale, externally funded tourism projects that may impact Bali’s environmental and cultural fabric. With the backing of a coalition that has recently gained national prominence, De Gadjah’s campaign is positioning itself as an alternative to PDI-P’s extended rule, appealing to voters who desire new leadership and a return to traditional values and sustainable growth for Bali. 

Key Issues at Stake 

This election is about more than just individual candidates—it’s a referendum on Bali’s direction amid rapid change. Key issues include: 

• Infrastructure Development: Koster’s proposed MRT system addresses a critical issue—traffic congestion—that has long plagued the island. His infrastructure plans aim to boost Bali’s accessibility and reduce environmental strains associated with road congestion. 

• Environmental Sustainability: Both candidates are aware of Bali’s environmental vulnerabilities, yet their approaches differ. Koster’s infrastructure upgrades focus on immediate needs like waste management. While De Gadjah’s campaign targets tourism policies to ensure sustainable practices that prioritise local communities. 

• Cultural Preservation: De Gadjah’s nationalist stance places emphasis on protecting Bali’s identity and ensuring that tourism aligns with Balinese values. This resonates with many voters who fear the island’s culture has become diluted by external influences as the tourism industry expands. 

A Crucial Moment for Bali’s Future 

This election is set against a backdrop of longstanding political dynamics. Bali has traditionally been a PDI-P stronghold. But De Gadjah’s coalition is making substantial inroads, representing a shift in public sentiment and offering a choice that could reshape Bali’s future. Observers are eager to see if Bali will continue under the leadership of the PDI-P or embrace a new direction with the Onward Indonesia Coalition.