Bali's Kura Kura SEZ Set to Be Transformed into a Global Financial Hub

DENPASAR – Indonesia’s ambition to introduce a new financial epicentre is beginning to take tangible form through the development of the Kura Kura Bali Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Airlangga Hartarto, has confirmed that the government is refining financial sector regulations to be implemented in this area in Serangan Village, with the aim of turning it into an international financial centre (IFC). This strategic step positions Bali as a global capital destination offering stability amid world geopolitical turbulence. The plan to establish this special financial centre will be managed through coordination with Danantara. Its grand vision is to replicate the success of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in creating an inclusive and progressive business environment. A field review conducted by Coordinating Minister Airlangga, along with CEO of the Investment Management Agency (BPI) Danantara, Rosan Roeslani, and COO BPI Danantara, Dony Oskaria, signals the government’s seriousness in overseeing the realisation of investments in the area. This financial centre will be located in the Knowledge District area, a zone architected to convert intellectual capital into an engine of economic growth. “What can the Kura Kura Bali SEZ offer as an IFC location? That should be discussed directly with Danantara. The regulations will form the foundation for establishing a financial sector SEZ designed to accommodate various needs for setting up a financial centre, from management schemes to facilities that can attract global investors,” stated Airlangga on Friday (1/5/2026). The Kura Kura Bali SEZ will not only focus on financial transactions but also strengthen itself with institutional infrastructure supporting a sustainable vision. This zone will house the Global Blended Finance Alliance (GBFA), the ACS Bali intercultural school, and an environmental research centre through the International Mangrove Research Center (IMRC). The presence of these flagship projects further affirms the profile of the Kura Kura Bali SEZ as a living ecosystem that is already functioning. “We have prepared the physical infrastructure, institutions, and global partnerships needed to make Kura Kura Bali the home of Indonesia’s Financial Sector SEZ. The Kura Kura Bali SEZ is a living ecosystem that is already operational and serves as a strategic partner to the government,” concluded Tuti. With the integration of the financial sector, education, and environmental research, the Kura Kura Bali SEZ is projected to become a catalyst for a more resilient and globally competitive economic transformation in Bali.