Next Phase of Construction Plans Revealed for Seawall Project at Bali’s Uluwatu

Posted on May 12, 2025
By The Bali Sun

The much-anticipated Uluwatu Sea Wall Project has reached a significant milestone with the completion of its initial phase, as Bali’s local leaders announce upcoming plans for further development. This project, which has been a topic of considerable debate, involves extensive modifications to the region’s iconic limestone cliffs that give way to the historic Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple.

Completion of the Initial Phase

The first phase of the Uluwatu Sea Wall Project, which involved stabilizing a dangerous crack beneath the temple and constructing a new access road, has officially concluded. Officials from the Badung Regency Government have confirmed that traditional cleansing ceremonies required by Balinese Hindu customs will follow the completion of additional development activities scheduled for 2026. Anak Agung Rama Putra, Head of Water at the Badung Regency Office for Public Works and Public Housing, addressed reporters concerning the future of this project. He stated, "Pecatu Traditional Village has coordinated with us. The cleansing ceremony will be carried out after the further work is completed, planned for 2026."

Future Developments and Accessibility

Putra clarified that the newly constructed road beneath the Uluwatu cliff serves strictly maintenance purposes and facilitates religious activities such as the Mapakelem ceremony. Access to this road will be strictly controlled, ensuring it is only open when needed. "The access key will be held by the custodian and us at PUPR," Putra explained, emphasizing the importance of adhering to agreed usage guidelines to prevent any inappropriate activities.

With the crack in the cliff stabilized and the access road in place, the regimen plans to undertake a series of developments over the next two years. Future works will include building revetments to protect the Batu Metandal Temple area, further stabilization of cracks along the eastern side of Uluwatu cliff, and planting native trees to support the local wildlife, particularly the monkeys that inhabit the area around the temple.

The Badung Regency Government has earmarked funding for these activities from the annual budgets of 2025 and 2026. Putra remarked, “This work is large-scale and requires careful calculations. The implementation can only commence after all stages of construction are complete."

Community Concerns and Tourist Impact

The Uluwatu Sea Wall Project has sparked controversy among local communities concerned about the environmental impact of the construction. There were public outcries after videos surfaced showing construction debris being dumped into the ocean, igniting debates over the adequacy of environmental assessments for the project, known as AMDAL.

As Uluwatu continues to be one of Bali’s top tourism spots, visitors to the area this week should prepare for restricted access to the temple grounds. The Pura Luhur Uluwatu, one of the island’s most spiritually significant temples, is currently welcoming worshippers for the annual Piodolan Ceremony from May 13-16, which celebrates the temple’s anniversary. Although access to parts of the temple will be limited, the temple complex remains open to visitors, and nightly Kecak dance performances at the Uluwatu Temple Amphitheater will continue as scheduled.

For tourists looking to explore Balinese culture while in Uluwatu, the GWK Cultural Park offers immersive experiences that highlight the island’s rich heritage, art, and traditions.

In summary, as the Uluwatu Sea Wall Project transitions into its next phases of development, local authorities are committed to cultural sensitivities, environmental protection, and the ongoing needs of both the local community and tourists alike.