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. (*)

Klungkung, April 2025 – The Semarapura Festival returns for its seventh edition, bringing with it a spirit of cultural preservation and the strengthening of local potential in Klungkung Regency. This annual event once again becomes a magnet for thousands of locals and tourists eager to witness the richness of Balinese art and culture in a vibrant and festive atmosphere. Semarapura Festival 7 takes place in the heart of the city, specifically at Ida Dewa Agung Jambe Square, and runs for several days featuring a wide range of exciting programs. Set against the majestic backdrop of Puri Agung Klungkung and steeped in traditional ambiance, the festival presents a fusion of cultural performances, traditional parades, MSME exhibitions, and a culinary bazaar serving delightful Balinese delicacies. Each evening, the main stage comes alive with various traditional Balinese performances, warmly welcomed by enthusiastic crowds. A cultural parade featuring students, local artists, and traditional village communities becomes one of the festival’s most anticipated attractions. This year also features the Semarapura Run, a sports activity that will be joined by hundreds of participants. In addition to art and sports performances, Semarapura Festival 7 also serves as a platform to promote Klungkung's local MSME products. Rows of booths offering handcrafted goods, endek fabric, agricultural produce, and a variety of traditional food and drinks showcase the creativity and economic potential of the local community. The Semarapura Festival is not only a source of entertainment, but also a medium for cultural preservation and economic recovery in the post-pandemic era. “Through this festival, we strengthen our cultural identity and encourage inclusive economic growth,” the Regent stated.   With a spirit of mutual cooperation and the active participation of all elements of the community, Semarapura Festival 7 successfully becomes a shared stage to create, innovate, and preserve the ancestral cultural heritage. More than just a memorable event for its visitors, the festival also reaffirms Klungkung's position as a region rich in history, art, and the noble values of Balinese culture.