Construction of Glass Elevator at Kelingking Beach in Bali Sparks Local Outrage and Suspension
The development of a towering glass elevator at Bali’s iconic Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida island has ignited significant local opposition, leading to a temporary halt in construction. The controversial project, intended to enhance tourism by providing safer and easier access to the beach, has instead raised concerns about environmental impact, cultural preservation, and visitor safety.
The Project and Its Vision
Kelingking Beach, best known for its dramatic cliff formation resembling a T. rex, attracts thousands of tourists annually. Located on Nusa Penida, approximately a 45-minute ferry ride from Denpasar, the beach’s breathtaking views are accompanied by a challenging descent involving steep stairways, a trek that can take up to two hours.
In July 2023, Chinese developer China Kaishi Group began constructing a 182-meter tall, multi-million dollar glass elevator along the cliffs. The project also includes plans for two external sightseeing elevators, a sky café, a restaurant, and a 400-square-meter panoramic overlook. The developer has promoted the elevator as a solution to the perilous climb, reducing travel time from the cliff to the beach to just one minute while enhancing safety and visitor experience.
Local Backlash and Environmental Concerns
Despite the intended benefits, locals have voiced strong opposition. Residents argue that the elevator disrupts the natural beauty and cultural significance of Kelingking Beach. Made Sediana, a local resident, described the structure as a detriment to the once-pristine panorama that draws tourists to the area. The Bali Sun reported widespread dissatisfaction among the community, many of whom feel that visitors come to enjoy the landscape rather than modern infrastructure like lifts.
Indonesian Senator Niluh Djelantik, a vocal critic, urged the public to reconsider the implications of such developments, emphasizing the elevator could be a gateway to environmental degradation and increased risks. She highlighted ongoing dangers posed by the ocean currents at Kelingking Beach, which is permanently closed to swimming. Just weeks ago, a tragic incident occurred when a French tourist drowned despite warnings.
Government Response and Suspension of Construction
In response to mounting scrutiny and public unrest, Bali authorities temporarily suspended the elevator’s construction on the grounds of lacking necessary permits and potential violations of spatial regulations. I Made Supartha, head of the Bali legislature’s planning and permits committee, stressed the importance of enforcing regulations and ensuring no further activity until compliance is verified.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, which has been overseeing the project to guarantee adherence to sustainability, safety, and cleanliness standards, defended the initiative. Deputy Minister Hariyanto noted that tourism at Kelingking Beach has increased by more than 35% between 2023 and 2024 and expressed optimism that the elevator will further encourage visitors to extend their stays.
Safety and Tourism Debate
The developers argue that the elevator also addresses safety concerns, intending to facilitate quicker rescues in emergencies by providing easier evacuation routes. However, critics question the necessity of improving access to a beach that remains hazardous for swimming and where evacuation challenges persist due to the terrain.
Senator Djelantik reaffirmed her opposition in recent social media statements, reflecting ongoing local discontent with what many consider unchecked development on the island. The debate encapsulates broader tensions between tourism-driven economic growth and the preservation of Bali’s natural environment and cultural heritage.
Looking Ahead
As construction remains suspended, the future of the glass elevator at Kelingking Beach is uncertain. The Bali government has yet to issue an official statement on the project’s long-term fate. Meanwhile, local voices and environmental advocates continue to push for development approaches that respect Bali’s unique landscapes and community values.
The Kelingking Beach elevator saga underscores the complex challenges faced by popular tourist destinations balancing modernization with sustainability and community interests.
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