We’ve recently received messages from our readers questioning our recent non-stop coverage of problematic bules (a slang term for foreigners, usually Caucasians) in Bali. To be fair, writing about something bad does not make us responsible for that thing happening. As a matter of fact, we sincerely hope our stories can serve as a reminder for everybody to respect the island and its people.
For instance, we’re not writing about this man who took off his pants on top of the sacred Mount Agung in the hopes that our readers will go out and do the same. That would be lunacy.
Anywaaays, in the viral clip that has sparked backlash recently (from Indonesians and sane foreign nationals alike), a man – reportedly hailing from Russia – can be seen mooning the camera during his climb to the top of Mt. Agung.
Reports say that the man was part of a group of at least seven other foreign nationals climbing the mountain and that they were not registered as hikers.
Mt. Agung is a sacred site for the Balinese people, and climbing it without permission is strictly prohibited.
“[According to witnesses], a group of foreigners consisting of more than seven people climbed [Mt. Agung] on Saturday early in the morning without any guide,” Gunung Agung’s hiking coordinator, I Wayan Widi Yasa, said as quoted by DetikBali.
The group began their hike at Pengubengan checkpoint in Besakih Village.
Calls for the immigration authorities to locate the unidentified man and deport him began when the clip was shared by numerous social media accounts yesterday.
Considering how many times foreigners have been deported for showing too much skin at Bali’s sacred sites, the outrage is understandable.
In addition to being known for its picturesque landscapes, Bali is also famous for its cultural heritage. This incident is yet another stark reminder of the importance of respecting local customs and traditions.
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