BALI — The Denpasar City National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has warned foreign tourists against bringing cannabis or other illegal narcotics to Bali, stressing that differences in drug laws between countries do not exempt visitors from complying with Indonesian law.
Head of Denpasar BNN, Police Commissioner Leo Dedy Defretes, said Indonesia enforces strict regulations on narcotics under Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics. The law covers illegal drug use and various forms of illicit drug trafficking.
Leo delivered the warning while speaking to reporters during an operation targeting an alleged narcotics trafficking network in South Denpasar on Tuesday night, October 20, through the early hours of Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
He said the warning was particularly relevant to international visitors from countries where cannabis and other substances may be subject to different legal policies.
“Bali is part of Indonesia, where the law strictly prohibits the illegal use and trafficking of narcotics,” Leo said.
Cannabis Remains Prohibited Under Indonesian Drug Laws
Leo explained that Indonesian narcotics regulations cover a range of illegal activities, including selling drugs, acting as an intermediary in drug transactions, manufacturing, importing and exporting narcotics unlawfully.
He specifically highlighted cannabis, which is classified as a Category I narcotic plant under Indonesian law.
Foreign tourists, he said, should not assume that substances permitted or regulated differently in their home countries are automatically legal in Indonesia.
“Learn about the regulations and understand the different narcotics classifications first. Some countries may allow them, but in Indonesia, illegal trafficking and use are strictly prohibited,” Leo said.
The Denpasar BNN chief stressed that unfamiliarity with Indonesian law is not a valid reason to disregard local regulations. Visitors should check their belongings carefully and ensure they are not carrying prohibited narcotics when entering Indonesia.
## Drug Offences Can Carry Severe Criminal Penalties
The Denpasar BNN also warned that narcotics-related offences can result in severe criminal penalties. According to Leo, sentences can reach up to 20 years in prison or life imprisonment, depending on the nature of the offence and the applicable legal provisions.
Foreign tourists visiting Bali are therefore urged not to bring cannabis or other prohibited narcotics into Indonesia. They are also advised to avoid any involvement in illegal drug use or trafficking while in the country.
The agency said public education remains an important part of preventing drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Understanding local laws before travelling can help international visitors avoid legal violations while supporting safety and security across Bali's tourism sector.
Respect Indonesian Law When Visiting Bali
The Denpasar BNN emphasised that preventing narcotics abuse and illicit trafficking requires collective responsibility.
Both domestic and international tourists are expected to respect Indonesian law, regardless of the drug policies in their countries of origin.
For visitors planning a trip to Bali, the message is clear: check Indonesia's narcotics regulations before travelling, do not bring prohibited substances across the border, and comply with local laws throughout your stay.
