A debate over tipping culture has erupted across the Indonesian resort island of Bali and beyond, triggered by a politician’s unfavourable comparison of domestic and foreign tourists.
In a social media video, I Gusti Arya Wedakarna urged domestic tourists to “normalise giving tips in touristy places”, which he said was part of the island’s “ethics”.
“Perhaps that’s the psychological reason why Balinese people are more excited about serving foreigners,” said Wedakarna, an Indonesian Regional Representative Council senator from Bali, in the clip that went viral earlier this month.
“I’ve noticed that some of my local friends never leave tips,” he said. “They even bargain, perhaps too much, and they also want a lot [from the workers].”