All posts by: "Ann Callahan"

The rural people of East Bali have been hit hard by the pandemic. Tourism has come to a halt and job losses are multiplying daily. With no social welfare available, families are going without even the basics.

As Amed and its surrounds is a fishing village, the people are able to access fish, fruit and vegetables. However, rice being a staple in the Asian diet is much harder to source.

Yayasan Team Action Amed, a foundation made up of both local Balinese and expats, is focusing on assisting those affected by the pandemic. Its initial aim was to raise at least $1,000 a month to provide for a large number of families in the area.

“Trying to sustain a feeding program for the masses on top of our regular community work has proved a challenge indeed,” said campaign manager Moya James.

A new initiative from Plastic Exchange Bali, a barter program that turns the problem of environmental pollution into an opportunity to use plastic trash as a currency for food, was seen as delivering a two-fold solution. It brings dignity to people by allowing them to participate in an activity that gives them food for their families as well as cleaning up the environment,

The foundation in collaboration with Plastic Exchange Bali will introduce this concept across three villages comprising 20 Banjars commencing November 13, 2020.

An initial 300kg of rice will be given to each Banjar, recyclable materials can then be onsold and funds diverted back into continuing the program with minimal top ups.

Plastic Exchange Bali have generously donated IDR30 million to kick this off and the foundation now needs to continue raising money to keep the initiative alive. It has already raised IDR12 million but is short for the initial round by IDR13 million (AUD1,300), so please dig deep and give a helping hand. Just AUD25 can provide 25kgs of rice for a family of four for one month.

How can I donate?

PayPal: teamactionamed@gmail.com

Transferwise or transfer to local bank account:

Bank Rakyat Indonesia – persero (BRI)

Account name – Yayasan Team Action Amed

Account – 809701002710535

SWIFT code BRINIDJA

Australian Account: Team Action Amed

BSB124060

Account number 22622144

The last three days of October saw a decline in the number of positive cases of COVID-19 in Bali. The island recorded the highest recovery rate during the pandemic for the last seven months with the recovery of 108 patients (90,17 percent ) and only 65 new cases on October 30. The recovery rate of 90.17 percent is from the total 11,712 positive cases, and increased 0.42 percent compared with the previous day. 

The average was in the 60s compared with previous weeks where numbers were reported in the 90s and 100s. Most of the island is no longer considered in the ‘red zone’. 

The decrease has been attributed to the strict health and safety protocols such as wearing of face masks, keeping hands sanitized and physical distancing implemented by the Bali Provincial Government

Indonesian military leaders are praising the Government and the people for being disciplined and adhering to the protocols to control the spread of the virus. 

“As a tourist destination, Bali must earn the trust from travellers by continuing to promote healthy and safe tourism,” noted Bali Deputy Governor Cok Ace.

Bali recently welcomed 16,000 domestic tourists for the three-day holiday to celebrate the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday. The Bali Provincial Government tightened their surveillance on every border to help reduce the importation of COVID-19. Arrivals had to present proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid test prior to entry being granted.

For every booking of 2 days or more, you will receive a 10% discount voucher for Eco Bali Spa

Villa Sintra will be open for business again very shortly. Stay Tuned