Newsroom

The Bali Hotels Association (BHA) proudly held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), including the election of the new chair at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali.

BHA convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM), during which General Managers from 171 member hotels voted to elect the BHA Chairman for 2026. This annual leadership transition plays a key role in shaping the association’s strategic direction for the year ahead.

Outgoing Chair Franklyn Kocek, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Seminyak, expressed heartfelt appreciation to BHA members for their unwavering support. He reflected on the privilege of serving the association and shared gratitude for the collective achievements accomplished during his tenure.

The newly elected Chairperson, Fransiska Handoko, General Manager of Wyndham Tamansari Jivva Resort Bali, conveyed her appreciation to members for their trust and confidence.  She was first elected as Chair of BHA in 2022 -  notably becoming the first female chairperson of the association. In her leadership role, she has emphasized the importance of aligning hotels with evolving tourism regulations and sustainable practices Under her guidance, BHA has focused on promoting sustainability, strengthening hotel-government relations, and supporting responsible tourism practices across Bali’s hospitality industry

“It is a privilege to serve once again as Chairperson of BHA. In 2026, we will strengthen our commitment to sustainable hospitality, empower local talent, and accelerate initiatives that help our industry adapt to changing global expectations. Together with our members, we will continue elevating Bali as a leader in responsible and culturally rooted tourism,” Fransiska stated.

Continuing in her role as Vice Chairperson, Simona Chimenti, General Manager of The Pavilions Bali, emphasized the importance of unity and forward-thinking leadership. BHA should support long-term sustainability, quality standards, and responsible tourism signaling that she views hospitality not merely as business but as part of maintaining Bali’s cultural and environmental integrity.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing as Vice Chair. The year ahead will bring both challenges and opportunities, and I look forward to working closely with our members to develop solutions that support resilience, innovation, and long-term value for Bali’s hospitality sector,” said Simona.

The Bali Hotels Association (BHA) is guided by a dedicated and experienced group of hotel leaders who volunteer their time to advance the association’s mission of sustainable, responsible tourism and strong community engagement. The Board works under the shared principle of “Hospitality with Purpose,” ensuring that BHA initiatives support Bali’s cultural heritage, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.

Key Board Members and Roles:

• Fransiska Handoko – Chairperson and Head of Education, Training & Scholarships. She also serves as General Manager of Wyndham Tamansari Jivva Resort Bali, bringing leadership and a focus on workforce development.

• Simona Chimenti – Vice Chairman & Head of Marketing & Media Relations; General Manager of The Pavilions Bali. She steers communication efforts and promotion strategies.

• Melida Weber – Board Member & Head of Finance & Business Development overseeing financial strategy and growth initiatives.

• Franklyn Yulius Kocek – Board Member & Head of Government Relations, Safety & Security; General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Seminyak. He leads BHA’s work with public authorities and safety standards.

• Ankit Airon – Member of the Board & Head of Sustainability and General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Bali Canggu, championing environmental and sustainable tourism practices.

• Patrick Farrell – Board Member & Head of Community Relations & Charity and General Manager of Viceroy Bali, focused on community outreach and philanthropic programs.

• Diah Ajung – Executive Director of BHA and Head of Sports & Culture, leading operational strategy and cultural engagement across programs.

Together, this Board represents a cross-section of Bali’s hospitality leadership, uniting hotel general managers from renowned properties across the island. They provide strategic direction for key areas including education, sustainability, marketing, government relations, finance, community engagement, and safety all designed to strengthen Bali’s position as a world-class destination while uplifting local communities and nurturing responsible tourism

Looking ahead, the BHA Board remains steadfast in its mission to preserve Bali’s cultural heritage while advancing responsible tourism practices. Under the leadership of the newly appointed Chair and Vice Chair, the association will prioritize strategic partnerships, innovation-led growth, and initiatives that reinforce Bali’s reputation as a premier global destination.

BHA’s guiding principle, “Hospitality with Purpose,” continues to reflect its dedication to tourism that is culturally respectful, environmentally responsible, and economically beneficial to the island and its communities. The association remains a trusted voice for the hospitality industry and an important resource for travelers to Bali.