Bali Tourism Leaders Urge Restart of Controversial Kelingking Beach Glass Elevator Project
Nusa Penida, Bali — Tourism leaders on Bali are urging the Provincial Government to allow construction to resume on the highly debated Kelingking Beach Glass Elevator project in Nusa Penida. The elevator project, which has been halted due to permit violations, has sparked significant controversy among environmentalists, local communities, and tourism stakeholders.
Background of the Project
The Kelingking Beach Glass Elevator initiative involves the construction of a 182-meter glass elevator shaft and a series of viewing platforms descending the iconic cliff face above Kelingking Beach. This vantage point is renowned worldwide as one of Indonesia’s most breathtaking views and is cherished by visitors and locals alike.
The project received approval in recent years as a bold tourism development, aiming to increase accessibility to the beach and vantage points. However, it has been met with vocal criticism concerning its possible environmental impact and perceived contradictions with Bali’s commitment to culturally respectful and sustainable tourism.
Suspension of Construction
Earlier this month, the Bali Provincial Government suspended all construction activities after an investigation found that the project breached conditions stipulated by its permits and licenses, specifically violating Law No. 26 of 2007 regarding spatial planning. Made Supartha, Head of the Special Committee on Spatial Affairs, Assess, and Permits, confirmed the suspension and noted that local authorities would enforce the order to prevent further development.
The suspension was welcomed by those who opposed the project on environmental and cultural grounds. However, it has also led to concerns over the potential abandonment of the half-built structure, which some fear may cause irreversible damage to the Kelingking Beach viewpoint.
Calls for Project Revival
Representatives from Bali’s tourism industry have stepped forward to advocate for the resumption of the elevator project. Putu Darmaya, Chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) for Klungkung Regency, emphasized the economic benefits that the completed elevator could bring to the Nusa Penida community.
Darmaya highlighted the significant investment already poured into the project—exceeding IDR 200 billion—and warned that prolonged uncertainty could deter investors, leading to a detrimental impact on local businesses and livelihoods. He called for a pragmatic and solutions-driven approach, suggesting modifications to the design to reduce environmental concerns, such as altering the elevator’s structural elements and using colors that blend more naturally with the surrounding landscape.
“Many investors hesitate to undertake large projects in Nusa Penida, so it’s commendable that this investor has taken concrete steps,” Darmaya stated. He urged stakeholders to collaborate on adjustments that address environmental and cultural concerns rather than abandoning the development altogether.
Importance of Nusa Penida as a Tourism Destination
Nusa Penida, the largest of Bali’s three Nusa Islands along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, has grown rapidly as a tourist hotspot in recent years. Following the reopening of borders after the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of tourists daily travel from Bali to experience the island’s natural wonders.
Popular attractions include Kelingking Beach’s dramatic cliffs, diving excursions with manta rays, and coastal hikes leading to pristine spots like Diamond Beach. Enhancements such as the glass elevator are viewed by some tourism leaders as vital infrastructure that can improve visitor access and safety while fostering local economic growth.
As the debate continues, the Provincial Government’s forthcoming decision on whether to permit construction to resume on the Kelingking Beach Glass Elevator will have far-reaching implications for Bali’s tourism development trajectory, balancing economic opportunities with environmental preservation and cultural integrity.
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