Jakarta, ThedailyID — The organizer of a running event in Canggu, Bali, has denied allegations that it discriminated against Indonesian participants after reports surfaced that the event organizers rejected several local applicants.
In a statement posted on Instagram, the community, which operates under the name Entourage, apologized to those who felt offended while rejecting claims that it intentionally discriminated against Indonesians. CNN Indonesia first reported the statement.
“First and foremost, we are deeply sorry to everyone who felt offended or hurt. We never intended to disrespect or discriminate against anyone,” Entourage said.
The group created Entourage as a community for digital nomads who recently arrived in Bali. Its goal is to help members connect through social and recreational activities.
Entourage said it does not define membership by nationality. It added that people from many countries, including Indonesia, have joined its community.
The organizers explained that they open some activities to everyone at no cost. They reserve other events for specific groups based on each program’s purpose.
For example, some programs target digital freelancers, while others, such as women’s walks and workshops, welcome only female participants.
The group said its regular running club welcomes everyone without registration. However, it organized the Disco Silent Run on July 22, 2026, as its first paid event using a different registration system.
According to Entourage, Indonesians accounted for around 25% of registered participants. The organizers said a technical issue disrupted the automatic approval process for WhatsApp group invitations.
“Although we wanted to create a space where digital nomads could connect, a bias in the system caused some — but not all — Indonesian participants with +62 phone numbers to be rejected incorrectly,” the group said.
Entourage said it remains committed to building an inclusive community and regularly collaborates with local businesses and charitable organizations across Bali.
The organization has temporarily suspended all events while it reviews its registration procedures.
“We are taking full responsibility for what happened and are committed to making meaningful changes going forward,” it added.
The controversy began after screenshots circulated on social media suggesting that organizers screened applicants based on nationality. One screenshot showed organizers rejecting an Indonesian applicant, while another appeared to show them approving a German applicant.
The allegations sparked criticism online and drew a strong response from Ni Luh Djelantik, a member of Indonesia’s Regional Representative Council (DPD) representing Bali.
Ni Luh said she had reported the case to Bali Immigration and the Bali Police. She also urged authorities to investigate the event over alleged discrimination and possible licensing violations.
