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Bali Files Draft Law to End Private Beaches and Protect Public Access

The move responds to repeated access disputes rooted in weak enforcement of national shoreline rules.

Overview

  • Governor I Wayan Koster submitted a provincial draft on Nov 17 to the Bali DPRD to safeguard public access and regulate shoreline protection.
  • The proposal seeks to restore beaches to their public purpose by stopping hotels and villas from blocking entry or restricting religious use.
  • Provincial leaders plan expedited deliberation with a stated goal of passing the measure before the end of 2025.
  • A 2016 Presidential Regulation already declares beaches public, defining the zone as the shoreline plus at least 100 metres inland from the highest tide line.
  • Documented cases—Geger Beach in 2023, Sanur in 2021, Temukus in 2019, and a 2024 fireworks event at Berawa—highlight how commercial operations have curtailed access and disrupted ceremonies.