Denpasar – Udayana University (Unud) remains committed to enhancing its academic contributions and strategic synergies in supporting sustainable tourism in Bali. This commitment was demonstrated by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Unud and BaliCEB, attended by the Rector of Udayana University, Prof. Ir. I Ketut Sudarsana, S.T., Ph.D., at the inauguration of the Bali Convention and Exhibition Bureau (BaliCEB) board for the 2026-2031 period. The event took place at The Meru Sanur, Denpasar, on Friday (June 5, 2026).
The inauguration of the BaliCEB board was based on Decree Number 001/SK/BaliCEB/VI/2026 and was also attended by the Deputy Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, Ni Luh Puspa, the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, and other stakeholders and tourism industry players in Bali.
This clear synergy between academia and industry is further strengthened by the addition of an Udayana University academic to the board. Prof. Dr. Drs. I Nyoman Sunarta, M.Sc., Professor of Environmental Tourism from the Faculty of Tourism at Udayana University, was officially appointed as a member of the Expert Council of the BaliCEB board for the 2026-2031 period. His presence is expected to provide a scientific and strategic foundation, particularly in ensuring that the development of the MICE industry in Bali remains aligned with the principles of environmental sustainability and local wisdom.
In his remarks, the newly inaugurated Chairman of BaliCEB, Ketut Jaman, expressed his optimism for the future of MICE in Bali. He emphasized that in addition to being supported by international-standard hotel facilities and venues, the Island of the Gods boasts a unique cultural, spiritual, creative, and welcoming community that is unmatched by any other destination in the world. Bali’s successful track record in hosting major events such as the G20 Summit and the World Water Forum, along with the presence of the Sanur Health Special Economic Zone (SEZ), provides strong capital to strengthen Bali’s position as a quality tourism destination.
Reciprocally, Bali Governor Wayan Koster, in his directive, urged the BaliCEB management to work measurably through a concrete five-year program. He also plans to invite the management team, including strategic partners, for more in-depth discussions to formulate a comprehensive and holistic direction for Bali’s tourism development.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, expressed her appreciation for this inauguration and the collaboration established with the education sector. According to data from the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Bali has soared to 38th place in the world, successfully hosting 54 international meetings by 2024. The Deputy Minister believes that with its combination of modern infrastructure and authentic cultural richness, Bali can compete closely with global MICE hubs like Singapore. He also hopes this synergy will encourage event hosting that is not only economically successful but also responsible and has a positive impact on the environment and the wider community.
With the signing of the MoU and the representation of Unud academics in the BaliCEB Expert Council, Udayana University confirms its active role in implementing the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, while also becoming a key strategic partner of the government and industry in realizing Bali as a sustainable international MICE center.