Bali is also known for its dances, which are much more complex than most casual viewers appreciate. One man, the dalang , weaves a story from the thread of one of the great epics, speaks the parts of all the players, works the puppets, punctuates events by rapping a small hammer held between his toes, and conducts the orchestra. A great dalang is a man of surpassing skill. Ni Wayan Tengah Bathing Her Daughter Samuh, 1988. While public health in Bali has improved greatly in modern times, malaria is still quite common, and infectious diseases pose a significant risk.
Infant mortality is reduced but still high.
Health clinics and immunizations have helped to reduce deaths among small children. Nutrition is generally improving, and government efforts to control disease vectors have had some success. Those who survive childhood are usually in robust health and often live long lives. Population growth is only just beginning to come under control in Bali. While statistics are not to be trusted, it appears that the population of Bali has approximately trebled in this century.