KARANGASEM, Bali – A viral social media video has sparked widespread discussion after a domestic tourist claimed she was asked to leave a beachside business at Blue Lagoon Beach in Padangbai, Karangasem, to make way for foreign visitors.

In the Instagram Reel, the woman said she and her companions had come to the beach to have lunch before going snorkeling. According to her account, staff cleared away their meal before they had finished eating and told them not to stay long because foreign visitors were expected to arrive.

“We hadn’t even finished eating when they cleared our table. We wanted to go snorkeling, but instead we were asked to leave. No wonder the place was so quiet,” she said in the video.

The video quickly went viral, prompting mixed reactions online. Many social media users criticized what they viewed as preferential treatment toward international visitors over domestic tourists, while others called for both sides of the story to be heard before drawing conclusions.

The Bali Times has not independently verified the allegations made in the video, and no public statement had been issued by the business at the time of publication.

Made Sudiarta, head of the Padangbai Traditional Village (Bendesa Adat), said the area where the incident allegedly took place is privately owned and operated as a commercial business, placing it outside the authority of the traditional village.

However, he noted that beach activities themselves should remain accessible to the public.

“We are not yet in a position to comment on the incident because the land is privately owned,” Sudiarta said on Thursday.

Padangbai Village Head Ni Wayan Suparwati Dewi also said she was not fully aware of the incident. She explained that several privately owned businesses operate along the shoreline at Blue Lagoon Beach.

Meanwhile, I Wayan Kariasa, chairman of the Karangasem chapter of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI), said it would be unfortunate if the allegations proved to be true.

He emphasized that foreign visitors, domestic tourists and local residents alike deserve equal treatment.

“Especially when they all pay entrance fees, rent facilities and contribute to the local economy through tourism activities,” Kariasa said.

He added that beaches are public spaces intended to be enjoyed by everyone in accordance with applicable regulations, regardless of nationality or place of origin.

“There should be no discrimination. Bali’s tourism industry will continue to grow by upholding hospitality, fairness and respect for every visitor,” he said.

The Bali Times has sought comment from the business featured in the viral video. This article will be updated if a response is received.