The term “Bali Reclamation” usually refers to controversial land reclamation projects in Bali, particularly the Benoa Bay Reclamation Project—a major environmental and cultural flashpoint in recent Balinese history.
Here’s a breakdown of what it’s all about:
🏝️ Benoa Bay Reclamation Project (Teluk Benoa)
📍Location
- Benoa Bay, in southern Bali, near Denpasar, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and the Ngurah Rai International Airport.
- A crucial mangrove ecosystem, considered sacred by local communities.
⚙️ The Project Plan
- Initially proposed around 2012–2013 by a private developer (PT Tirta Wahana Bali Internasional).
- Planned to reclaim 700+ hectares of Benoa Bay for a luxury development including:
- Hotels & resorts
- Malls
- Convention centers
- Theme parks
- Artificial islands
⚠️ Why It Was Controversial
🛐 Cultural Concerns
- Benoa Bay is considered sacred in Balinese Hindu cosmology.
- Reclamation could violate local adat law (customary law) and temple zones.
🌿 Environmental Impact
- Threat to mangrove forests, marine biodiversity, and traditional fishing areas.
- Increased flood risk and loss of natural water flow systems.
👥 Community & Activist Opposition
- Massive grassroots movement: “Tolak Reklamasi Teluk Benoa” (“Reject Benoa Bay Reclamation”).
- Artists, musicians, religious leaders, environmentalists, and local villagers united in protest.
- Support from high-profile figures like Balinese punk rock band Superman Is Dead.
📅 Timeline of Key Events
- 2012: Initial proposal floated.
- 2013: Presidential decree under Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono opens the bay for potential development.
- 2014–2019: Intense protests across Bali and Indonesia.
- August 2019: President Joko Widodo officially cancels the reclamation permit by declaring Benoa Bay a conservation zone. 🎉
🌊 Legacy & Ongoing Relevance
- Seen as a landmark victory for grassroots activism in Indonesia.
- Sparked deeper discussions about sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and environmental justice in Bali.
- Benoa Bay is now recognized for its ecological and spiritual importance.
