Authorities say the two men have been blacklisted from returning, while police and immigration expand their investigation into the event that sparked nationwide controversy.
Two Dutch nationals linked to the organization of the controversial Bali Silent Disco Run have left Indonesia for Singapore as immigration authorities widen their investigation into a running event that triggered allegations of discrimination against Indonesian participants.
The men, identified only by their initials JAS (35) and HQV (37), departed Ngurah Rai International Airport on the evening of July 23 aboard a KLM flight to Singapore, according to Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration.
Although they are no longer in the country, Indonesian authorities have since blacklisted both men from re-entering Indonesia, marking one of the strongest official responses to a controversy that began as a viral social media debate.
Immigration: Foreigners Cannot Organize Events
Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko said the case raises broader concerns about compliance with Indonesian immigration and business regulations.
“An event like this cannot be justified if it violates Indonesian law. It creates the impression of a state within a state,” Hendarsam said in a statement on Friday.
He added that foreign nationals are generally not permitted to operate event organizer businesses in Indonesia. Under existing regulations, foreigners may participate as official crew members for international performances or events, but organizing commercial or public events independently is subject to Indonesian legal requirements.
Sponsor and Organizers Under Investigation
Immigration officials have also summoned the sponsor company responsible for the two Dutch nationals, identified as PT SIG, to examine whether the activities carried out by the pair were consistent with the immigration permits issued to them.
Authorities said further action could be taken if violations of Indonesia’s immigration regulations are found.
Hendarsam also instructed immigration officers in Bali to identify everyone involved in organizing the event.
“If foreign nationals are found operating as event organizers in violation of Indonesian law, take immediate action,” he said.
Police Investigation Continues
The immigration inquiry is running alongside a separate police investigation.
Bali Police spokesperson Ariasandy confirmed that Badung Police are currently gathering evidence and interviewing relevant parties to establish the facts surrounding the event.
Authorities have not announced whether any criminal charges will be filed.
From Viral Backlash to Government Action
The investigation follows a week of intense public scrutiny after Entourage Bali’s Bali Silent Disco Run was accused of excluding Indonesian applicants while allowing foreign nationals to join.
Screenshots shared widely on social media appeared to show Indonesian applicants being rejected from the community while applicants identifying themselves as foreign nationals were accepted.
The allegations quickly expanded beyond discrimination claims, with public attention also turning to questions about permits for using public roads and whether foreign nationals were legally organizing community events in Indonesia.
Entourage Bali later apologized, suspended all community activities, and said the controversy resulted from a technical error in its automated registration system rather than intentional discrimination.
Why This Matters
The case has evolved far beyond a dispute over one running event.
For Bali’s international community of expatriates, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads, it has become one of the clearest reminders that organizing public events in Indonesia carries legal responsibilities beyond building a community. Immigration status, business licensing, and compliance with local regulations are now under increased scrutiny.
With immigration authorities, police, and sponsors all facing ongoing investigations, the controversy surrounding the Bali Silent Disco Run is no longer just about social media backlash. It has become a test case for how Indonesia intends to regulate foreign-led communities operating on one of the world’s most international islands.
