Bali Governor Wayan Koster reaffirmed his commitment to taking Bali Province beyond conventional tourism by strengthening the foundation of science and technology. On the sidelines of his participation in London Climate Action Week 2026, Koster made a strategic visit to Oxford University and Google's headquarters in the UK in an effort to open global networking access for regional advancement.
During his visit to Oxford University, Koster held discussions with academics and the Indonesian diaspora, including students from Bali. He emphasized that human resources are the primary asset that must be optimized. According to him, high-achieving young people studying abroad serve as a crucial bridge for technology transfer and building international networks that can be applied to Bali's future development.
This transformation aligns with the green development policy vision of the Bali Provincial Government, which is now gaining appreciation on the international stage. Koster believes that reliance on natural tourism must be balanced with a knowledge-based economy, ensuring Bali remains relevant and competitive amidst global changes without losing the cultural identity that serves as its root strength.
The trip continued to Google's headquarters, where Koster spoke with artificial intelligence researcher Adhiguna Kuncoro. The discussion focused on opportunities to utilize digital technology to strengthen data management in the cultural sector, public services, and the local economic ecosystem. Koster emphasized that digital technology will be positioned as a strategic instrument to advance the region rather than a threat to local cultural preservation.
This diplomatic move reflects the local government's bold, future-oriented stance. By integrating knowledge from renowned educational institutions and innovations from global tech giants, Koster hopes Bali can transform into a region deeply rooted in traditional values while remaining resilient in the world's technology-driven economic landscape.
