Bali Governor Introduces Policy to Safeguard Beaches from Privatization
Denpasar, Bali – Wayan Koster, the Governor of Bali, has announced a new initiative aimed at preventing the privatization of the island’s renowned beaches, marking a significant step toward protecting the coastal areas for both local communities and tourists. This decision comes in response to growing concerns that commercial interests are increasingly encroaching on public access to Bali’s shoreline.
During his first weeks back in office as Governor, Koster unveiled 15 new Priority Regional Regulations, with the beach protections being among the most significant for both residents and visitors. The policy specifically targets beaches located in Denpasar City and Badung Regency, crucial tourist destinations that include Sanur, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu.
Koster made the announcement at the "First Welcome Speech of the Governor of Bali for the 2025-2030 Period," held at the 9th Plenary Meeting of the Bali Provincial DPRD in Niti Mandala, Denpasar. Addressing concerns raised by community leaders and residents, Koster explained, “This is done because nowadays the beach is increasingly difficult for the local community to use because the hotels and villas around it seem to have a beach, so the community is prohibited from using the existing beach.”
The governor emphasized that the policy is intended to ensure that Bali’s coastal areas remain accessible for traditional and cultural activities, social gatherings, and economic events that are vital to the local communities.
Koster referenced several recent incidents that raised alarms over public access to the beaches. Notable controversies include the fireworks incident involving Finns Beach Club and the installation of barrier buoys at Serangan Beach. He stated that efforts were already underway to restore access for local fishermen and community members. “In Serangan, there was a guardrail in the sea that had been opened so that the fishermen could be active again,” he explained, reaffirming that while tourism businesses might own land, they do not own the beaches in front of them.
In line with Koster’s announcements, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, further stressed the importance of public access to beaches, particularly in areas like Nusa Dua and Kuta where commercial restrictions had previously been imposed. “We have emphasized that the beach belongs to the Balinese people, the property of the public, it is clear,” he remarked.
Historically, tourism businesses and commercial enterprises have not had the legal authority to privatize Bali’s beaches. However, there have been ongoing instances where marketing efforts suggested exclusive access to certain beach areas for guests and customers, which could mislead the public regarding their rights to access these coastal zones. The introduction of this new legislation aims to eliminate any ambiguity surrounding beach access and enables the Bali Provincial Government to take action against businesses making false claims of exclusivity.
While many hotels, beach clubs, and restaurants enjoy direct access to various beach stretches, the policy reinforces that no entity has exclusive rights over these public areas. Although private businesses can manage the use of beach amenities such as chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas, public access remains paramount.
With the implementation of this policy, Governor Koster has assured both residents and visitors that access to Bali’s beautiful beaches will be maintained, ensuring that these natural treasures can be enjoyed by everyone. Exceptions will be made for traditional Balinese Hindu ceremonies, such as Melasti, which may require temporary beach access restrictions.
This new policy is set to help protect Bali’s coastline for future generations while maintaining its position as a prime destination for both local and international tourists.
Add a comment