A local resident accused of sexually harassing an overseas tourist in the Lovina resort area has escaped police prosecution, with local authorities choosing instead to settle the matter by requiring him to sign a formal statement of apology.
The incident occurred in Kalibukbuk Village, within the Buleleng District of Bali. The perpetrator, identified as Wayan Sedana (also known as Nane), was summoned alongside his family by the Kalibukbuk Village Administration after video footage documenting the encounter began circulating online.
Following the incident, village officials reached out directly to the victim’s social media account, @aurosa_a, to issue an official apology on behalf of the local administration.
“We have sent an apology from the village administration to the tourist’s account regarding the unpleasant experience she endured. We also explained that we have taken swift action in response to this information,” said Kalibukbuk Village Head I Ketut Suka.
Village-Level Resolution and Lack of Formal Charges
Explaining the decision not to report the matter to law enforcement, Suka noted that the tourist had checked out of her accommodation and left the Lovina area shortly after the incident took place.
“We didn’t get a chance to meet the guest because she checked out immediately. She posted about it on Instagram right after the incident. We were shocked when we saw it, so we looked into the matter,” Suka stated.
He added: “We are not filing a police report for now because the family has shown good faith by committing to monitor his actions to ensure such behaviour is not repeated.”
Despite the absence of formal criminal proceedings, the village head stressed that administrative leaders are taking the matter seriously to protect the region’s reputation as a prime destination for international travellers.
“We remain responsible. Even though he is no longer here, the state of our tourism sector remains our responsibility. We cannot let this be disrupted, as it could affect our visitor numbers,” Suka said.
Addressing the outcome of the meeting with the perpetrator’s family, Suka added: “It was resolved yesterday; his family came in. We summoned them to the office, and they signed a statement. We have provided guidance and a stern warning: if he acts up like this again, we will take firm action.”
Lihat postingan ini di Instagram
Police Outreach and Viral Video Footage
Although no formal report was lodged locally, the Buleleng Resort Police have initiated contact with the Taiwan Police Attaché in Indonesia to investigate the matter directly and offer assistance to the victim.
Buleleng Police Chief AKBP Ruzi Gusman confirmed that law enforcement is taking steps to ensure international visitors feel secure while travelling in Bali.
“We have coordinated with the Taiwan Police Attaché in Indonesia to communicate directly with the victim and investigate the incident,” Ruzi stated. Condemning the perpetrator’s behaviour, he remarked: “It is truly regrettable; this was an irresponsible act that could damage the image of Bali’s tourism and hospitality, particularly regarding Lovina Beach.”
Ruzi emphasised that public safety remains a shared responsibility, concluding: “The police guarantee the comfort and safety of tourists visiting the island of Bali.”
The case came to light after the victim uploaded video footage of the encounter to Instagram. The footage depicts a man wearing a whistle around his neck approaching the foreign national while she was recording a video outdoors.
After initially engaging in a friendly handshake and wishing her a pleasant holiday, the man held her hand for an extended period and attempted to guide it toward his groin.
Recounting the encounter online, the victim stated: “Why were you shaking my hand for so long? I didn’t know what you were actually trying to do. By the time I realised it, it was already too late.”
