Bali Provincial Government Studies 55,000 Hectares of South Bali Waters for Conservation Area
The Bali Provincial Government is currently studying the designation of a new marine conservation area in the southern waters of Bali. The area, spanning approximately 55,000 hectares, encompasses the waters of Nusa Dua, Pandawa Beach, and Sanur.
“South Bali is at the foot of Bali Island. This includes Nusa Dua, Pandawa Beach, and Sanur, covering 55,000 hectares and currently under study for finalisation,” said I Nengah Sugiarta, Head of the Marine Division of the Bali Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office, during the World Ocean Day and Coral Triangle Day 2026 event in Nusa Dua, Bali.
Sugiarta explained that the southern Bali waters were selected for conservation expansion because they serve as a migration route for marine mammals, such as whales. Additionally, the area possesses healthy coral reef ecosystems that require protection.
“First and foremost, it is a passage for marine megafauna, specifically whales. Furthermore, the coral reefs are excellent. That is what we need to protect—the whales passing through during migration,” he added.
Sugi0e0rta noted that the area currently holds ‘temporary zone’ status, with the target to be officially designated as a conservation area by 2027. The government is currently drafting study documents and zoning plans before submitting them to the central government.
“There will be core zones and limited utilisation zones. Whether the central government agrees with that spatial allocation will be subject to discussion. Once approved, it will be officially established,” he continued.
Despite the area being a developing tourism destination, Sugiarta emphasised that the establishment of the conservation area will not halt tourism activities. Management will be conducted through the division of protection and utilisation zones.
“It is possible, because in conservation areas like Nusa Penida, there are limited utilisation zones alongside core zones. In the core zone, no other activities such as fishing are permitted, but other activities can continue,” said Sugiarta.
Putu Sumardiana, Head of the Bali Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office, stated that Bali already has five conservation areas established by the central government, including Nusa Penida, Buleleng, Karangasem, Jembrana, and the Benoa Bay Maritime Conservation Area (KKM). According to Sumardiana, each area possesses different characteristics and flagship species.
“For example, Jembrana is suitable for sea turtle conservation. In Nusa Penida, you find species like the mola-mola, while Buleleng has dolphins and so on,” Sumardiana remarked.
However, he emphasised that the government’s primary focus is not merely increasing the number of conservation areas. The government aims to ensure that existing waters remain protected from damage, particularly to coral reefs.
“The important thing is not just adding more conservation areas, but ensuring that existing ones remain intact. Usually, the greatest threat comes from coral reef degradation,” Sumardiana concluded.