Sealing of Bali's Kura Kura SEZ Deemed to Breach Procedures, Threatens Investment Climate

The sealing of construction activities at the Kura Kura Bali SEZ by the Bali DPRD’s TRAP Special Committee has drawn sharp criticism. The move is seen not only as breaching procedures but also as risking damage to Bali’s investment image.

BTID’s Legal and Permitting Team, Anak Agung Ngurah Buana, described the TRAP special committee’s action as procedurally flawed for bypassing the required mechanisms.

“The TRAP Special Committee of the Bali DPRD should report to the Bali DPRD Chair through an official Plenary Session, after which the Chair reports to the Bali Governor,” Agung emphasised in a written statement to detikBali on Friday (24/4/2026).

According to him, the DPRD is only authorised to provide recommendations, while execution lies with the executive branch, in this case the Bali Provincial Government.

“But this didn’t happen. It should be the executive, as per the Home Minister’s Instruction,” Agung said.

Agung also criticised the sealing recommendation as unilateral, without confirmation or clarification from BTID.

However, he stated that the land exchange process conducted was in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

“The land we acquired is a production forest area that can be converted. It is indeed permitted by the rules. The TRAP special committee of the DPRD should delve deeper into this with the BPKH Region VIII of the Ministry of Forestry,” he said.

He added that, according to Government Regulation No. 23 of 2023 on the establishment of SEZ areas, the Bali Governor serves as the SEZ Supervisory Board at the regional level.

Yossy Sulistyorini, BTID’s Head of Legal, echoed similar sentiments. She assessed that the TRAP special committee’s decision was made without fully hearing clarification from BTID.

She stated that the sealing action, deemed non-procedural, would be discussed internally before determining next steps.

“We appreciate the attention given to us. Of course, we are committed to complying with applicable laws and regulations,” she emphasised.

She added that all permits have been obtained by BTID. However, the closure was still carried out without proper legal reasons or arguments.

Damaging Bali’s Image in Investors’ Eyes

Yossy said the TRAP special committee’s action has the potential to contradict efforts to attract investment to Bali. According to her, the closure move, seen as non-compliant with provisions, could create legal uncertainty.

“Don’t let actions that are not in accordance with the law instead make investors fearful and cause them to reconsider investing in Bali. This would ultimately harm the people of Bali,” she stated.

Previously, the TRAP Special Committee of the Bali DPRD temporarily halted the marina project owned by PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID) at the Kura Kura Bali SEZ in Serangan, Denpasar.

The closure was due to findings of alleged document discrepancies, including the mangrove land exchange process. Activities were suspended temporarily until BTID completes the documents, which will be examined through an RDP at the Bali DPRD.

During the closure period, activities are monitored by the Satpol PP. If operational activities are still found, sanctions will be imposed.