The UHA Chairman Shares Insights on Leadership, Current Challenges, and the Future of Hospitality in Bali

Putu Surya Arysoma has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Ubud Hotels Association (UHA). A native of Peliatan Ubud, Putu Surya’s rise from treasurer to Vice Chairman, and now to Chairman, marks a distinguished journey characterized by dedication and professional growth. Though he modestly considers himself a newcomer to the industry, his trajectory reflects a deep commitment to the role and a readiness to lead.

Putu Surya's leadership philosophy is founded on the belief that seizing opportunities is crucial to success. As he steps into this prominent position, he is determined to meet the expectations set by UHA members and drive the association forward. In a recent interview, He shared insights into his vision for the future of UHA, his approach to leadership, and the key initiatives he plans to implement. His strategic direction promises to shape the future of UHA and influence the broader hospitality sector in Ubud.

Leadership Philosophy

Putu Surya’s leadership philosophy transcends mere authority; he views true leadership as a matter of setting an exemplary standard and empowering others. Acknowledging the diversity of leadership styles, He prioritizes a hands-on approach, actively guiding his team and UHA members through direct involvement. Putu Surya is known for spearheading UHA initiatives personally while valuing the input of seasoned members. By closely aligning UHA’s activities with the needs and feedback of its members, He strives to keep the organization both relevant and responsive.

The Current Hospitality Scene in Ubud and Gianyar

Putu Surya observes that Ubud and Gianyar are witnessing a zenith in their hospitality sector, marked by numerous accolades and heightened international acclaim. Yet, he also highlights the challenges accompanying such success, notably the issue of overcrowding. "Ubud has become a premier destination for many tourists, but it is approaching a saturation point," Putu Surya remarks. He emphasizes that the Ubud Hotels Association (UHA) must address these concerns by enhancing the quality of manpower through targeted human resources development and bolstering public relations. Strengthening ties with government bodies to secure UHA’s involvement in policy-making processes is also crucial for navigating these challenges effectively.

Key Initiatives for UHA’s New Committee

Under Putu Surya’s leadership, the Ubud Hotels Association (UHA) is launching several pivotal initiatives aimed at refining its operations and bolstering support for its members. Central to these efforts is the development of a comprehensive database, which will be integrated into a new website and dashboard. This digital platform will act as a central hub for communication, member mapping, and event coordination, streamlining UHA’s functions and improving its responsiveness to member needs.

Putu Surya also underscores ongoing work across UHA’s four main pillars: sales & marketing, human resources, public relations, and organizational development. Key initiatives include UHA’s participation in the Bali Beyond Travel Fair 2024, with 25 member establishments joining the event. Additionally, UHA is rolling out extensive training programs for human resources, ranging from tax training to upcoming work safety courses. The association will continue to host cultural and sporting events, which have been well-received by its members, further strengthening community engagement and networking.

Vision for the Future

Looking to the future, Putu Surya is focused on ensuring the sustainability of Bali’s hospitality industry, with particular attention to the Ubud and Gianyar regions. He stresses the importance of balancing profitability with the preservation of Bali’s rich cultural heritage. “The challenge lies in how business owners may prioritize profit over preserving the essence of Bali’s unique culture and traditions,” he notes.

Putu Surya is dedicated to positioning the Ubud Hotels Association (UHA) as a key advocate for sustainability in the industry, recognizing its significant impact on the local economy. He also emphasizes the importance of UHA’s collaboration with its parent organization, PHRI Gianyar, and its role within a comprehensive network involving academia, business, community, government, and media. This synergy aims to foster a balanced and sustainable growth trajectory for Bali’s hospitality sector.

As the Ubud Hotels Association (UHA) advances under Putu Surya’s leadership, the organization is well-positioned to address the challenges of a flourishing hospitality industry while honoring its cultural heritage. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, collaboration, and robust member support, Putu Surya’s vision for UHA is set to elevate the quality and resilience of the hospitality sector in Ubud and Gianyar.