JAKARTA, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq on Friday called on the management of star-rated hotels, restaurants, and other tourism facilities on Bali Island to properly handle the waste they produce within three months.

The minister explained that star-rated hotels are the first target, as their high turnover typically results in significant volumes of waste. After hotels, the environment ministry will extend the policy to star-rated restaurants.

"We are controlling those (star-rated hotels) first. This afternoon, we will discuss with the governor of Bali and accommodation businesses to give them three months to improve," the minister said.

He noted that the government will require businesses to upgrade their waste management practices, with hotels that comply to be formally assessed and labeled. Those found violating the regulations will face sanctions, the minister stressed, noting that Bali's waste problem is already very serious. ■