Bali Authorities Urge Tourists to Assess Health Following Airport Incident

Bali, Indonesia – In light of a recent medical emergency involving a Western Australian man at Ngurah Rai International Airport, local authorities have issued a public advisory urging travelers to evaluate their health and fitness levels prior to arriving on the island. This warning follows an incident on July 6, 2025, where a 59-year-old man collapsed shortly after disembarking from a Jetstar flight from Perth.

According to Gede Suka Artana, a spokesperson for the Ngurah Rai Airport Police, the man lost his balance while retrieving his luggage and subsequently struck a wall. "He appeared disoriented, collapsed, and hit a wall, which caused injuries to his head and neck," Artana stated. Medical personnel found the individual face down and bleeding upon their arrival. After receiving initial first aid, he was transported to BIMC Hospital in Kuta for further treatment. Reports indicate that the man has a history of high blood pressure, which may have contributed to the incident.

The incident has prompted Bali’s health officials to express growing concern over the number of medical emergencies involving tourists. This year has seen a noticeable increase in such occurrences, which officials attribute to both health-related issues and a lack of understanding regarding local laws and safety regulations.

In a related incident, on July 8, a mother and her teenage son were rescued after getting lost while hiking on Mount Batukaru. They had attempted the hike without a guide, a practice that is illegal for both local and international tourists on Bali’s volcanoes. Nyoman Sidakarya, head of Bali’s National Search and Rescue Agency, emphasized the importance of adhering to this law, stating, "The SAR team members found traces of food left behind by the pair who had embarked on a group hike without a guide."

Raja Juli Antoni, Indonesia’s Minister of Forestry, commented on the need for caution among tourists, especially following the recent death of a Brazilian tourist on Mount Rinjani. "Our imagination about climbing a mountain should not be equated with going to the office; it requires physical exercise, complete equipment, and mental readiness," he cautioned.

As Bali continues to attract millions of tourists yearly, health and safety remain paramount. Authorities are encouraging visitors to prioritize their well-being and familiarize themselves with local regulations to prevent further incidents. This advisory serves as a reminder that while Bali offers stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, the responsibilities of health and safety should not be overlooked.

The Indonesian government, alongside local officials, continues to monitor the situation closely and is expected to implement additional measures to ensure the safety and health of tourists in the future. As travel resumes post-pandemic, the emphasis on preparedness and awareness is more critical than ever.