Table 1

Coding themes

ThemesSub-themesCodesQuotes
Disaster ImpactEconomicEconomic downturnThe global impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, evident in Kuta-Bali’s extended restaurant closures and economic challenges exacerbated by past bombings, reflects a broader struggle with prolonged restrictions and setbacks in the tourism sector
Decrease in incomeThe sustained economic challenges of the pandemic and the aftermath of past incidents have resulted in decreased income for seasoned figures in the tourism industry like myself, exacerbated by the absence of local and international tourists
Termination of the employment relationshipThe interconnected economic challenges faced by individuals, particularly in the performing arts sector, during the pandemic. Layoffs, financial constraints, and significant price drops, such as the reduced value of essential goods like fried rice, exemplify the widespread economic losses experienced by many
Business bankruptcyThe pandemic severely impacted Kuta’s economy, leading to hotel closures due to heavy reliance on tourism. It also underscored personal struggles, such as selling assets for basic needs, reflecting broader economic challenges in the community
Socio-cultural and politicalChanges in people’s behaviourAmid the pandemic, religious activities transformed with discreet events and emerging creativity due to boredom. The lively atmosphere of the past has shifted, and there is a trend of avoiding late-night outings due to concerns about darkness by 8 o’clock
Threats to local cultural practicesCultural events, halted for two years during the pandemic, are slowly resuming at hotels with reduced intensity and talent absorption. A government circular in March 2020 during ‘Nyepi’ restricted traditional ceremonies, prompting contemplation on the imposed distance, even in matters related to God
Social tensionIn the wake of prolonged isolation from customs and art, people rebel against rules out of boredom, contributing to increased crime incidents, including pickpocketing. The pandemic also brings about social tensions, with debates and conflicts within indigenous communities escalating to involve law enforcement
Change in the political systemThe regulatory landscape for artistic activities is dynamic, marked by numerous prohibitions during the pandemic, although there are signs of easing restrictions
Environment and regional planningEnvironmental qualityThe pandemic has left facilities like the swimming pool neglected due to financial constraints. The aftermath of the Bali bomb explosion caused significant damage to homes, and many bungalow rooms and homestays required repairs
Environmental arrangementDuring the pandemic, it feels difficult to organise the village environment so that it is as clean and as good as before the pandemic
Community Interpretation towards DisasterSocio-cultural and religiosityDisaster as a blessingKuta, once a bustling tourism hub, now needs to address economic challenges. Inspired by “blessings in disguise,” akin to Japan’s creative response to snow, the community sees challenges like waste on Kuta Beach as opportunities for transformation, aiming to repurpose organic waste into crafts and installations
Disaster as an adversityPeople of Kuta and Bali have faced profound challenges from events like the Bali Bombings in 2002 and 2005, along with the unprecedented difficulties brought by the Covid-19 Pandemic. Adapting to the pandemic’s effects is seen as an inherent aspect of life, requiring navigation through highs and challenges
Encouraging feelings of loveEmbracing mutual respect and shared activities amid past tragedies and the ongoing pandemic is essential. Maintaining a divine connection and cultivating gratitude serve as reminders in these challenging times
Community Resilience Responding to DisastersEconomicSurvive in the tourism industryA former hotel now offers budget boarding, restaurants shifted to local tastes, and Kuta, with its unique features, holds untapped tourism potential. To revive the area, shophouse owners are encouraged to open for even a few tourists
Strive to diversify jobsForeign residents in Kuta returned to villages; some tried culinary ventures without success, and one person returned to farming in South Denpasar. Another individual explored various businesses, including incense-making, but faced challenges due to low purchasing power in the community
Financial accessThe individual encountered economic challenges during the pandemic. They sold their vehicle for capital and savings in a local credit institution, which was crucial for a year, and faced difficulties as the institution neared bankruptcy, complicating withdrawals
Public facilities accessFortunately, there is continued access to hospitals, markets, and children’s schools during the pandemic, with various methods ensuring their operational continuity
Training and education accessThe provincial government has introduced virtual art events in response to the pandemic, offering artists technological adaptation training. Key programs like Kuta Karnival and BEDO involve collaborations with external businesses in Kuta, emphasising education on product exportation and distribution
Socio-culturalPerforming arts and customsIn the tourism recovery, a commitment is made to give artists more space, aligning with ethical considerations. Emphasising the impact of cultural events like the Kuta Carnival and the contributions of maestro Lotring, leveraging foundational cultural arts is seen as crucial for reviving tourism
Communication and collaborationEstablished six months after the Bali bombings, the Kuta Small Business Association, encompassing hotels, restaurants, garment shops, and the surf industry, collaborates to revitalise Bali through communication and support. The association draws inspiration from the swift post-Bali bombings recovery driven by global sympathy. The community encourages active participation in tourism recovery, irrespective of local ID cards, reminiscent of the post-Bali bombings period
Strength-based on local wisdom and religious ritualsThe Kuta cultural-arts community plans a revival through the Kuta Art Festival, fostering local cooperation (menyama braya). Adhering to the Fisherman’s Philosophy, Kuta’s coastal residents stay engaged, treating the pandemic with collective spiritual activities and rituals, including the Nangluk Merana ceremony, symbolising unity and resilience
Governance dimensionsRegulation and economic recovery planningThe community proposes recovery ideas to key officials for Bali’s revival after the bombings. Collaborating with Kuta Traditional Village, activities like the Kuta Carnival prove successful when media management, as seen in post-Bali bombings, plays a vital role. However, the government’s recovery program lacks clarity and direct involvement for small economic actors
Mitigate the health and environmental impactsForeigners, workers, and tourists are expected to have skills and provide a deposit, with workplaces accountable under awig-awig rules, emphasising responsibility for culture and the environment. Ongoing government monitoring and preventive measures are crucial for addressing virus concerns and safeguarding public and tourist health

Source(s): Authors' construction

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