Controversy Erupts Over Name Change at Serangan Beach in Bali
Leaders Respond to Community Concerns
In a rapidly evolving situation in Bali, local authorities have been compelled to issue media statements following the unexpected emergence of a new name for Serangan Beach. The controversy began when a photo surfaced online showing the beach labeled as ‘Surf Surf by The Waves,’ raising alarms among residents and beachgoers alike. This incident is particularly sensitive in light of a similar controversy from May 2024, when the popular area of Canggu was renamed ‘New Moscow’ on Google Maps, prompting a fallout over issues of territorial integrity and local identity.
Developments in the Kura Kura Special Economic Zone
Serangan Beach is located on Serangan Island, which has recently been included in the Kura Kura Special Economic Zone (SEZ) initiative. Announced on April 5, 2023, by former President Joko Widodo, this project represents a significant strategy to promote tourism and investment in the region. Kura Kura SEZ spans over 498 hectares and promises to feature various developments, including a marina, integrated resorts, wellness centers, and educational parks. Similar to the Sanur SEZ, which focuses on medical tourism, Kura Kura aims to attract substantial investments, boasting trillions of rupiah in funding.
According to Tuti Hadiputranto, the President Director of Kura Kura Bali, special policies such as tax breaks are being instituted to cultivate an innovative and investing-friendly environment. Hadiputranto expressed gratitude to the government and emphasized the importance of these tax incentives for potential investors, stating, ‘These facilities include a 10-year income tax holiday for projects valued between Rp. 100 billion and Rp. 500 billion.’
Community Reactions and Concerns
The new Google Maps designation has raised eyebrows among community members and Balinese culture advocates. The listing shows two markers: one for Pantai Serangan and another labeled ‘Pantai Kura Kura Bali ‘Surf Surf by The Waves,’’ creating confusion and concern that a private entity may have overstepped by altering the name of a local landmark.
Zakki Hakim, Head of Communications and Community Relations for PT BTID, the development company behind Kura Kura SEZ, addressed the controversy during a recent press briefing. He clarified that the renaming occurred during the World Water Forum, which attracted approximately 3,000 guests. ‘The name appeared when the national and even international committees held the World Water Forum event,’ said Hakim. He further stated that the Kura Kura SEZ Development Team had not initiated any changes regarding the name or Google Maps listings. ‘Google is a public domain, so anyone can write anything there. We don’t know about that name,’ he explained.
Emphasizing the importance of community engagement, Hakim expressed a desire for constructive dialogue surrounding local developments. ‘We respect, appreciate, and uphold Balinese culture. If it needs to be changed again, we are open to receiving input from anyone,’ he noted, adding that residents of Serangan Village are actively involved in various activities hosted by the company.
Tensions Amid Broader Issues
The uproar surrounding the name change is accentuated by broader concerns over the influence of foreign interests in Bali’s real estate and tourism sectors. Following the Canggu name change saga, which culminated in police investigations regarding potential legal ramifications, the recent closure of the foreign-owned residential complex PARQ Ubud has reignited fears of illegal land use and rapid, unregulated development.
As commercial and tourism advancements continue to reshape Bali, many residents fear that the essence of their culture and location is at risk of being compromised. The influx of investment and international business initiatives has led to important discussions about neo-colonialism and the preservation of local identities amidst rising globalization pressures.
With increased scrutiny on development practices and the impact on Bali’s unique cultural landscape, local communities and authorities remain vigilant as they navigate the changing tides of investment, tourism, and identity in this beautiful Indonesian island.
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