Indonesia orders tourists not to use crypto payment

Wayan Koster said that no one tourist will be allowed to use cryptocurrencies to pay for goods & services.

Indonesia is the largest country in Southeast Asia and Oceania between the Indian and Pacific oceans. Under the laws of this island country, citizens are not allowed to use cryptocurrencies as a payment option, while crypto trading is legal on crypto exchanges. 

On 29 May 2023, Local media reports confirmed that the Indonesian government is going to take strict action against all those people who are using cryptocurrencies in their payment activities.

The Indonesian government-owned news agency Antara reported that  Wayan Koster, the governor of Indonesia’s province of Bali, issued strict orders against tourists who are not following the proper laws in the country. 

Bali governor confirmed that the use of crypto payment & also inappropriate activity will lead to offensive punishment.

“Foreign tourists who behave inappropriately, do activities that are not allowed in their visa permit, use crypto as a means of payment, and violate other provisions will be dealt with firmly,” reportedly the Bali governor said.

A few crypto Twitter users noted that Bali’s Governor passed a statement against bitcoin & cryptocurrency use on behalf of the Indonesian central bank order.

I don't know much about the Bali Governor; but seems a coordinated attack include from Indonesia's central bank. https://t.co/7GcihwpCWz pic.twitter.com/cbwfNqZRG6

— Sumbu Botol (@Arifai777) May 29, 2023

Several media reports noted that there are many shops in tourist focussed regions, which accept Cryptocurrencies as a payment option. These shops provide motorbike rental services, meditation retreats, & cafes. Nearly 36 businesses are openly accepting cryptocurrencies in this country.

Under the current laws, if any business/entity/individual is found accepting payment then that person may face jail punishment & $13,000 fine. So we can consider that Indonesia’s laws are not strict enough to prohibit the use of cryptocurrencies as legal tender. 

It is worth it to note that the Latin American country El Salvador adopted Bitcoin as a legal tender in Sep 2021 officially. After that decision, Salvador grabbed the attention of tourists around the whole world. In Salvador, there is a Bitcoin beach where every single business accepts Bitcoin payment & that beach is the centre of tourist attractions.

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