Bali tourism industry stays defiant after bomb blast

Chairman of the Bali Tourism Board (BTB), Bagus Sudibya, said: "The worldwide threat of terrorism has sadly returned to Bali after an absence of three years and interim visits to London, Egypt, Spain, Thailand and many other countries." Swift response Immediately following the report of the blasts, Bali Hotels Association (BHA) activated its emergency SMS system, which notifies all hotel general managers. Hotels responded by conducting an immediate guest count. Active security measures have been in place in all member hotels since the October 2002 bombings. The use of boom gates, restricting access to hotels, as well as tight screening procedures have been established. Narelle McDougall, director of sales and marketing at Le Méridien Nirwana Golf & Spa Resort Bali, said: "There have been a few meeting and incentive groups cancel. These groups were due to come to Bali in the next few weeks and they have chosen to postpone at this time as a mark of respect for the dead and injured. "In 2002, the future was unknown and no one could foresee how long it would take to see CEI business return to Bali. "We are much more confident that this incident will have less of a longterm affect and that 2006 will be a good year for business." Bruno Wauters, director of the Uma Sapna Villa resort in Seminyak, reported some cancellations, mainly from Korea, Japan and Europe. He said: "Our marketing strategy will focus on convincing people that what happened is an injustice to Bali and that, more than pity, the island needs more visitors." Ruth Zukerman, director of public relations, Conrad Bali Resort & Spa and a member of the BHA, said: "The most significant effect is being seen in the area of CEI business, primarily as a result of the duty and care that corporations must exercise. "BHA members are responding to requests for cancellations by being flexible. However, every effort is being made to convince companies of the flow-on effect that their cancellations may have on tourism to Bali as a whole. Corporate role "Companies are being asked to consider a larger responsibility for Bali by not succumbing to the fear installed by these terrorist attacks. Life must go on as normal," Zukerman said. Prami Pratiwi, public relations manager, Ritz- Carlton Bali, said: "There have been no serious reported injuries to guests and employees, nor has the hotel suffered any damage. Hotel operations have not been interrupted. "Security measures remain at the highest level and we remain in constant contact with local authorities," she said. Desmond James, director, Sourcing Bali, which is a convention and incentives supplier, aid: "Hoteliers, event planners and tour operators need to offer inclusive packages — possibly holding more events within the grounds of hotels and attractions. He added: "Bali will definitely rebound. The determination of the people, the dedication of the industry and the support of the CEI community will ensure it."