Kuta, todaysSpill.com
In welcoming the Holy Day of Waisak 2569 BE/2025, which falls on May 12, 2025, Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa once again demonstrated his commitment to strengthening the social protection system through the distribution of religious social aid to the Buddhist community. The activity took place at the Dharma Semadhi Multipurpose Hall, Vihara Dharmayana, Kuta Village, Kuta District, Badung, on Friday (9/5/2025).
A total of 255 Buddhist households holding Badung ID cards received cash assistance of Rp 2 million per household.
This aid distribution is part of the implementation of the Sapta Kriya Adicipta Program—seven strategic development pillars promoted by the Badung Regency Government to create a just, prosperous, and competitive society. The program also serves as a local fiscal instrument that adapts to social and economic dynamics, particularly in addressing inflation and rising prices of basic needs ahead of religious holidays.
In his speech, Regent Adi Arnawa emphasized that this policy is not merely ceremonial, but a strategic affirmative step. Social stability is a fundamental pillar of regional development, especially for Badung, which heavily relies on the international tourism sector. Therefore, he called on all elements of society to maintain regional harmony, especially before and during religious holidays. “This assistance is a tangible form of the regional government’s presence to ensure that Buddhists can worship and celebrate Waisak properly. It reflects our commitment to the community, especially the Buddhist community. Peace is a prerequisite for tourism sustainability. We invite all communities to maintain a harmonious atmosphere for mutual comfort and safety,” he said.
Furthermore, the Regent stated that the social aid program would continue to be evaluated periodically to ensure its effectiveness and accuracy. He also revealed other policy plans, such as accelerating infrastructure development and providing banjar-based English tutoring. “This program reflects the local government’s sensitivity to social dynamics. It also shows that Badung upholds multiculturalism, solidarity, and social cohesion as the foundation of development. This is part of a fiscal policy design that is not only economic in nature but also socio-cultural. The Badung Regency Government will continue to strengthen responsive policies based on real community needs using a fair and sustainable approach. On behalf of the Badung Regency Government, I wish all Buddhists a blessed and meaningful Waisak Day,” concluded Adi Arnawa.
Meanwhile, Head of the Badung Social Services, AA Ngr. Raka Sukaeling, stated in his report that this religious social aid was designed as a responsive policy to the socio-economic dynamics that could lead to psychosocial stress. “Rising prices of basic needs before the holidays can create psychological and economic burdens, especially for vulnerable groups. Through this cash aid, we hope the community can celebrate the holy day in a peaceful and decent atmosphere,” he explained.
As the person in charge of Vihara Dharmayana, Adi Darmaja Kusuma also expressed deep appreciation to the Badung Government for its concern and attention. “We, the Buddhist community, are very grateful and thankful for this assistance. It is not only material support but also moral support, showing that the government is present and cares for all communities,” he said.
Accompanying the Regent during this event were Kuta Sub-district Head D. Ngurah Bhayudewa, the Sub-district Secretary, local village heads from Kuta District, and Kuta Traditional Village Leader I Komang Alit Ardana. TS-01
