Bali’s government has requested a temporary halt to the construction of new hotels and villas in the southern region of the Indonesian resort island. The goal is to curb overdevelopment and protect agricultural land as tourism continues to grow in popularity in the area. The moratorium will target the Sarbagita region, including Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, and Tabanan, although the duration of the suspension has not been specified.
The proposal for this measure has been sent to the central government in Jakarta, with the Tourism and Creative Economy Minister confirming that it will be reviewed and discussed at an upcoming cabinet meeting with President Joko Widodo. The idea is supported by academics and tourism stakeholders, aiming to prevent overtourism and manage future construction permits in Bali more effectively. The central government may take on the responsibility of granting permits, with local authorities having a consultative role in the process.
Visitor numbers to Bali have been increasing, with a sharp drop during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 but a rebound in 2021 and 2022. However, concerns have been raised about the impact of rapid development on the island, including the conversion of valuable rice fields into luxury villas. Areas like Gianyar and Tabanan, which are crucial for agriculture, have been affected by this trend, driven by the demand for villas from wealthy individuals and the availability of visas for foreigners.
The surge in new developments catering to tourists has been a cause for alarm locally, prompting the Bali government to take steps to curtail further construction. With concerns about the loss of agricultural land and potential threats to food security, the proposed moratorium on hotel and villa construction aims to strike a balance between tourism growth and sustainable development. By centralizing the management of building permits and involving community stakeholders in the decision-making process, the government hopes to protect the unique environment and culture of Bali while continuing to welcome visitors.
As Bali works to manage the impacts of tourism in its southern region, the focus is on finding solutions that promote responsible development and respect the island’s natural resources. By putting a temporary stop to new hotel and villa projects, the government is signaling its commitment to sustainable growth and the preservation of Bali’s cultural heritage. With the support of stakeholders and the central government, these efforts aim to strike a balance between economic prosperity and environmental conservation, ensuring that Bali remains a popular destination for tourists while safeguarding its identity for future generations.
