Controversial Glass Elevator Project at Nusa Penida Faces Legal Battle as Investors Push for Restart
Nusa Penida, Bali – The highly contentious 182-meter Glass Elevator Project at the iconic Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida, which was halted by Bali Governor Wayan Koster in late 2025, is now at the center of a legal dispute as investors seek to reverse the cancellation and resume construction.
Background of the Project Cancellation
In November 2025, Governor Koster officially ordered the cessation of all construction activities related to the Glass Viewing Platform, citing multiple violations of spatial planning and building permits. Despite backing from the Klungkung Regency Government and local community supporters, investigations revealed that the project did not comply with necessary regulations. The governor mandated that the investment company, PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group, dismantle the structures within six months and restore the site within a further three months.
Investor Response and Legal Challenges
The project, which had seen approximately 70% completion over more than a year and received an estimated investment of IDR 200 billion (about USD 15.5 million), has become embroiled in legal proceedings. The investors’ attorney, Gede Adi Putrawan, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the situation, accusing authorities of uneven treatment compared to other properties and alleging possible ulterior motives behind the project’s cancellation.
Putrawan emphasized that the investors fulfilled all permit requirements and questioned the responsibility of government officials who allowed the project to progress to its advanced stage before halting it. He warned of pursuing claims for both material and immaterial damages and stated, “If there is no certainty to continue this project, then the individuals involved must consider who will be responsible for our claims for losses.”
Government Position and Future Development
Governor Koster maintained that the cancellation was necessary to uphold laws related to spatial planning and environmental protection, ensuring sustainable development on Nusa Penida. He clarified that his administration supports tourism investment that complies with legal and environmental standards and stressed that other developments could proceed when these criteria are met.
Current Situation at Kelingking Beach
Tourists visiting Kelingking Beach continue to enjoy the stunning clifftop views and challenging descent to the beach. Although demolition work from the halted project is visible, it has not impeded visitors’ access to this popular destination.
As the situation unfolds, the legal dispute between the investors and the Bali provincial government highlights the complex balance between development, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship in one of Indonesia’s top tourism hotspots.
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