Married at First Sight Australia 2022’s Ella Ding has copped major backlash after posing in a bikini in front of a Balinese temple.

The reality star — who was recently rapped over the knuckles for riding without a helmet in Indonesia — took to Instagram to share reflections of her time overseas, however, was met with fury by commenters.

“I miss you so much everyday at moment bali [sic]. I have come back this new version of me. Unlocked a place in my soul I didn’t know I had, we are always growing and learning, and reflecting,” she captioned the pic.

ella ding balinese temple
Married at First Sight Australia 2022’s Ella Ding has copped major backlash after posing in a bikini in front of a Balinese temple. Source: Instagram.

“I can admit to myself I wish I did somethings [sic] differently this year, and I personally think the first best thing for growth is admitting to yourself where you have gone wrong and why you think that, and how you can make amends with the people or who your actions effected [sic]. We are not perfect, we are imperfectly perfect & as humans we are all just figuring it out 🤞🏽❤️ [sic].”

While some fans praised the star for her honest post, others quickly pointed out that she was being “disrespectful” to the Balinese culture.

“Everyone who knows anything about Balinese Culture wouldn’t do this,” one person wrote. At the same time, another said: “This image is so incredibly disrespectful to the people and culture you say you miss. Awful.”

Another explained that “Balinese people offer thanks multiple times a day. Their statues may be situated in a place where Aussies visit. No excuse or justification, it’s f*cked up.”

While some fans praised Ella for her honest post, others quickly pointed out that she was being “disrespectful” to the Balinese culture.


Another user, who has lived in Bali said: “Love and appreciate this. But as someone who’s lived in Bali 4 years I’d never pose half-naked in front of a temple 😂 it’s mad disrespect to them.”

Fans Were Quick to Point Out that Ella Ding’s Photo Was Taken In Front of a Beach Club

Fans were quick to point out that it was Ella’s swimwear that was causing the most offence.

“You [can’t] go to a temple in Bali dressed like that…disgraceful !!! [sic],” a person commented, while others gave her some concessions.

“I like Ella and her words and her vibe as a person, but sometimes we gotta just take it on the chin that we make mistakes. Doesn’t mean you intentionally disrespect anyone, just is a mistake,” another said.

“Perhaps someone at the venue could have said something to prevent this. We all live and learn. Hope you had a beautiful time in Bali 💖🙏🏼🌞”

Fans were quick to point out that it was Ella’s swimwear that was causing the most offence, however, others gave her some concessions. Source: Instagram.

While calling Ella “so beautiful”, the same person reiterated that “religious sites need respectful coverage”.

“I hope I’m wrong, but you may get some negative feedback for not dressing modestly at a religious site where offerings are made. Temples, I know you are asked to dress modestly, not sure about offering statues,” they said.

According to other users, the MAFS alum was posing at a beach club.

“It’s a beach club, not consecrated ground,” one pointed out, while another added: “You need to put a spoiler alert 🚨 at the top in block caps “I’m at a beach club” lol 😆 Xx 😘.”

Then another said this: “Wow posing & praying! You’re really killing two birds with one stone!” and LOL!

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Travellers Are Not Allowed to Wear Bikinis at Sacred Temples

Travellers visiting sacred temples on the Indonesian Island are banned from wearing bikinis and are not allowed to pose at sacred sites in skimpy outfits or clamber over ancient buildings.

Bali deputy governor Tjokorda Oka Artha Sukawati, known as Cok Ace, told The Guardian the law was made as part of an attempt to protect temples on the island.

“The temples need to be preserved since they are the spirits of Bali’s cultures and customs.”

According to KupuBarongubud.com, the Balinese people believe that the spirits of their ancestors will come back to Earth in the temples and their former homes, so they make all efforts to welcome them through prayers and offerings.

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