A video showing recent construction on the green slopes of Kintamani is going viral on Balinese social media. Walls for two buildings with terraces and views of Mount Batur and the lake have already been erected in the middle of the forest. Users are debating whether it's a new tourist attraction or illegal construction in a nature reserve.
A storm of online outrage erupted when local media reported that construction was taking place in a protected part of the forest near the Suter–Karangasem road. The head of the nearest village, I Nyoman Gamayana, stated that the project was being carried out without any agreement with the local administration or informing residents. He warned that locals' homes lie beneath the construction site, and if the forest on the slope is cleared, landslides could occur.
The head of the Bangli regional parliament, I Ketut Suastika, supported him, reminding that any actions in the forest, even with formal permission, must comply with strict regulations.
“If there is clearing, it's a violation. If there is no permit, the building must be demolished. Criminal liability for damaging the forest is possible,” he stated.
While officials were working out the details, public discontent continued to grow. Some users demanded a review of all projects around Batur.
A day later, local residents began to receive reassurance. The head of Eastern Bali's forestry management, Made Maha Widyartha, explained the situation, stating that the site is located on land controlled by BKSDA Bali, which is responsible for protected natural areas. According to him, the construction is indeed taking place, but it is legal.
Widyartha added that the investor holds a license allowing the use of a protected area for tourism purposes, such as cafes or recreational sites. The project's legality is documented, with a certificate and an official letter from the head of BKSDA Bali.
However, this was not enough to calm the public, so an inspection team consisting of representatives from Eastern Bali's Forestry Service, the Bangli Public Works and Housing Service, the municipal police, and the Kintamani district administration visited the construction site. The purpose of the visit was to ensure that the project is being carried out within the permitted parameters and does not exceed the designated area.
“We are grateful to the public for their attention and concern about the condition of the forests of Eastern Bali. But it’s important for discussions to be based on facts. This project is not illegal,” concluded Widyartha.
He also reminded that preserving the forests is a collective task, not just a government responsibility.
Meanwhile, local villagers remain wary of the project. Many acknowledge that they are willing to accept the construction if it does not disrupt the natural balance. However, concerns about the safety of the slopes and the integrity of the procedures remain.
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