Bali is drawing a hard line against unchecked tourism development. Starting in 2025, the island will halt permits for new tourism facilities on its productive land. This bold move, part of a comprehensive 100-Year Bali Development Plan running from 2025 to 2125, aims to safeguard the island from overexploitation.
Bali’s Tourism Overhaul: No New Permits on Productive Land
Governor Wayan Koster is ushering in a new era for Bali’s tourism sector, prioritizing sustainability over expansion.
- Bali will cease issuing permits for new tourism facilities on productive land starting in 2025.
- This policy is a cornerstone of the 100-Year Bali Development Plan (2025-2125).
- Governor Wayan Koster has already overseen demolitions of nearly 50 violating tourism buildings.
- The Bali DPRD has voiced support but seeks careful management of existing structures.
The directive was officially announced by Governor Wayan Koster during a plenary session of the Bali Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) in Denpasar on Monday, July 28. “I have signed the instruction,” Koster stated. “Starting this year [2025], no more permits for tourism facilities will be issued on productive land.”
Facing the Backlash
Koster anticipates pushback but stands firm, emphasizing the necessity of this policy to prevent Bali from succumbing to overexploitation. He confirmed the strict enforcement of this rule throughout his term.
Concrete actions are already underway. Nearly 50 tourism-related buildings found violating regulations at Bingin Beach have been demolished. The governor even personally visited the demolition sites, underscoring his commitment. He declared, “The violations are flagrant, and I’m not afraid. This is the first time a tourism facility has been demolished for breaching regulations—and it won’t stop here.”
Legislative Support and Concerns
Koster urged the Bali DPRD to fully support the initiative. “If the council issues a recommendation for action, I’ll follow through,” he said, noting that nine more sites are slated for enforcement.
I Wayan Disel Astawa, Deputy Speaker of the Bali DPRD, expressed support for the program but requested more details on the nine identified locations. Astawa also highlighted the need for careful handling of existing structures, many of which predated current regulations and could impact business operations. “We can’t just demolish standing buildings and suddenly introduce new regulations,” Astawa advised. “These sites need to be managed, not simply torn down.”
