Bali Governor Urges Bartenders to Build Careers at Home

Bali Governor Wayan Koster is encouraging young bartenders to develop their careers and establish businesses on the island instead of seeking employment aboard cruise ships or in hotels.

Speaking at the Mixology & Flair Bartender Competition in Denpasar, Koster said the provincial government is ready to provide access to financial support for young bartenders interested in opening cafes, bars or restaurants in Bali.

“If you want to start a business in Bali, we will provide capital assistance to create jobs. So, don’t work on cruise ships or in hotels anymore; start your own business,” Koster said.

Cruise ships have traditionally offered significant employment opportunities for young Indonesians, with thousands working across beverage, restaurant, housekeeping and other hotel departments. For many hospitality workers from Bali, cruise ship contracts provide valuable international experience alongside the potential to earn substantially more than they might in entry-level roles on the island.

Koster, however, is hoping to encourage more skilled hospitality workers to remain in Bali and use their knowledge and experience to support the local economy.

According to the governor, developing specialist abilities in areas such as mixology and flair bartending could provide young people with a path toward entrepreneurship rather than relying on employment overseas. The provincial government intends to support this approach by creating regular opportunities for bartenders to showcase their abilities while also promoting locally produced products.

Koster suggested organizing bartender events at least once a month in public spaces such as Bajra Sandhi in Renon, with a different selection of bartenders taking part on each occasion. The initiative could present an interesting challenge to Bali’s established position as an important source of hospitality crew for international cruise lines.

Although working aboard cruise ships is likely to remain an appealing career choice for many young Indonesians, the Bali government hopes that improved training, easier access to financing and greater opportunities to establish businesses could encourage more skilled hospitality professionals to pursue their careers closer to home.