BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR – A heated hearing unfolded during a meeting of the Special Committee on Spatial Planning, Regional Assets, and Licensing (Pansus TRAP) of the Bali Provincial Legislative Council (DPRD Bali), as lawmakers sharply criticized PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID) over the controversial mangrove land swap issue on Monday (May 11).

The session, held at the DPRD Bali building, was attended by committee chair I Made Supartha, vice chairs Gede Harja Astawa and Anak Agung Bagus Tri Candra Arka, deputy secretary Somvir, and several members, along with representatives from relevant regional agencies.

Chairman Supartha delivered strong remarks, accusing BTID of failing to provide sufficient documentation and concrete evidence to support its claims regarding the land swap project. He emphasized that from the outset, the committee had demanded transparent proof, which has yet to be presented.

“Community members have submitted complete documentation. But to this day, we have not seen BTID provide solid evidence to the committee,” he said firmly.

The statement drew attention as it was delivered in front of government agencies, law enforcement officials, and stakeholders involved in discussions on the mangrove area and marina development in Serangan.

Supartha also highlighted findings from a recent field inspection, pointing to serious issues surrounding marina activities that allegedly do not meet regulatory requirements. He linked this to the temporary suspension imposed by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.

“That is why it was temporarily shut down. It indicates there are problems,” he stated.

In addition, the committee raised concerns over BTID’s acknowledgment of mangrove tree cutting in the area. Although details on the scale and extent were not disclosed, Supartha described the admission as a critical finding.

“This is an ecological zone, a conservation area, a protected forest. Mangroves are not just ordinary trees,” he stressed.

He underscored the vital role of mangroves as Bali’s natural defense system—preventing coastal abrasion, supporting marine ecosystems, and mitigating tsunami risks.

Beyond environmental concerns, Supartha also pointed to the spiritual significance of the Serangan mangrove area. He noted that the site is considered sacred, home to temples revered by local communities.

“This is a sacred area. There are temples respected by the community. Residents have even reported difficulties accessing the area for religious activities due to limited space and access,” he revealed.

He questioned the rationale behind pursuing economic development in an এলাকா with strong legal and cultural protection status.

“A protected forest is not meant to be a special economic zone. Why push development in an area that should be preserved?” he asked.

According to Supartha, economic growth must not come at the expense of environmental, social, and spiritual balance in Bali.

“The economy is important, but balance is far more important. Environmental, social, cultural, and spiritual aspects must be safeguarded,” he emphasized.

The committee also examined the scale of the project area, reportedly covering nearly 500 hectares, including hundreds of hectares of reclaimed land that require further investigation.

Supartha concluded that findings from the hearing—gathered from regional agencies, the central government, and law enforcement—will form the basis for the committee’s official recommendations.

“We have heard all sides, conducted field checks, and uncovered key facts. These will shape our recommendations moving forward,” he said.