Bali has once again been entrusted to host the prestigious international event, the 26th Inter-Island Tourism Policy (ITOP) Forum2025, which will take place from June 20 to 23, 2025. The forum will bring together tourism policymakers from various island regions around the world that are part of the ITOP Forum network. To ensure the successful execution of the main forum and its side events, the Bali Provincial Government, through the Bali Tourism Office, conducted a comprehensive site inspection on May 22, 2025. The inspection was led by the Head of the Bali Tourism Office, Dr. Drs. I Wayan Sumarajaya, M.Si., accompanied by the Head of the Tourism Marketing Division and staff, and supported by the appointed event organizer. The site inspection was also attended by representatives from ITOP Forum member regions, namely Nakarin Paringkarn from Phuket, Thailand, as well as Young Hwan Kang, the Executive Director of the ITOP Forum, who was accompanied by Chelsea Chaaeeun, Manager of the ITOP Forum Secretariat. Several key locations were assessed as potential venues for the forum and its accompanying programs, including the Bali Beach Hotel, Tirta Empul Temple, Ubud Palace, Puri Lukisan Museum, and Taman Dedari Restaurant. These locations were selected for their strong cultural identity, historical relevance, and the natural beauty that embodies the spirit of Bali. During the visit, delegates were invited to experience the spiritual ambiance of Tirta Empul Temple, renowned for its sacred spring water; immerse themselves in Balinese heritage at Ubud Palace and Puri Lukisan Museum; and enjoy authentic Balinese cuisine surrounded by lush scenery at Taman Dedari Restaurant. The Bali Beach Hotel was reviewed as one of the main venues for the forum’s plenary sessions and official meetings. This initial site inspection marks a significant milestone in Bali’s preparation to host the 26th ITOP Forum. The event is expected to not only strengthen tourism cooperation among island regions but also reaffirm Bali’s standing as a leading global destination rooted in culture, heritage, and sustainability.  

30 Countries to Compete in the Climbing World Cup, Governor Koster: “It Must Be Successful and Promote Bali” DENPASAR – Hundreds of climbing athletes from 30 countries will participate in the Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) Climbing World Cup Bali 2025, set to take place at Peninsula Nusa Dua, Bali, from May 2–4, 2025. Bali Governor Wayan Koster supports this event as a platform to promote Bali’s tourism on the international stage, commonly referred to as sports tourism. “I am grateful that Bali has been chosen as the host venue for the world climbing championship. This international event must succeed in Bali as a way to promote our tourism to the world,” said Governor Wayan Koster during the Technical Coordination Meeting of the IFSC Climbing World Cup Bali 2025, attended by Bali Regional Secretary Dewa Made Indra, Chairman of the Bali Provincial Chapter of the Indonesian Climbing Federation (FPTI) Yudi Atmika, and related Provincial Government Officials, on Sunday (Redite, Keliwon Sungsang, April 13, 2025) at Kertha Sabha, Jayasabha, Denpasar. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Bali Provincial Chapter of FPTI, Putu Yudi Atmika, said Bali was chosen to host the IFSC Climbing World Cup Bali 2025 at the request of the President of the International Federation of Sport Climbing. “Jogja and Solo were initially proposed to host, but the IFSC President requested that the event be held in Bali. Therefore, we extend our deepest gratitude for the support given by Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster,” said Yudi Atmika. He added that the main reason for selecting Bali as the host is its comprehensive infrastructure and its status as a world-renowned tourist destination, which is a major draw for international climbing athletes.   He also explained that Bali’s readiness as the host of the IFSC Climbing World Cup Bali 2025 has been well-received by participating countries. “Currently, 30 countries have submitted registrations with a total of 250 athletes. This number may increase, and it is estimated there will be up to 700 participants,” he explained. He confirmed that two Balinese athletes from Buleleng—Desak Made Rita Kusuma Dewi and Kadek Adiasih—will represent Bali in the 2025 Climbing World Cup. Previously, Deputy Chair of Natural and Recreational Climbing at the Indonesian Climbing Federation (FPTI), Rocky Gerung, together with the management of the Bali Provincial Chapter of FPTI, met with Governor Koster at Jaya Sabha some time ago.   Rocky Gerung also expressed his appreciation for Governor Koster’s efforts in developing Bali in harmony with its nature, people, and culture. His remarks were shared in an audio post against the backdrop of a sunset at the Bali Mandara Toll Road. “Nothing misses in the hands of a master; there’s only sunset and Wayan Koster. Awesome, Bli,” said Rocky Gerung in his social media story. (*)