BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR — Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has temporarily suspended the activities of PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID) in the Kura-Kura Bali area, Denpasar, following findings of alleged serious violations involving unauthorized use of marine space and mangrove clearing.

The decisive action came after a field inspection conducted by the Directorate General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP) to ensure that all coastal business activities comply with regulations and do not harm the environment.

Director General of PSDKP, Pung Nugroho Saksono, also known as Ipunk, emphasized that the supervision aims to ensure business actors adhere to existing laws. “This monitoring is to ensure that every business operates within the legal framework,” he said in an official statement on Friday (May 8).

He added that the move is not only about law enforcement but also about encouraging compliance while safeguarding the sustainability of marine resources.

Meanwhile, Director of Marine Resources Surveillance, Sumono Darwinto, revealed that field verification uncovered significant violations. “There are indications of marine space utilization outside the approved Marine Spatial Utilization Suitability Permit (PKKPRL) covering 1.12 hectares, as well as suspected clearing of approximately 500 square meters of mangroves,” he explained.

Following these findings, marine inspectors from the PSDKP Benoa Base immediately halted unauthorized activities and installed official seals at the project site.

Head of PSDKP Benoa Base, Edi Purnomo, stated that the enforcement refers to Government Regulation No. 21 of 2021 and Ministerial Regulation No. 30 of 2021 on marine spatial supervision. “The temporary suspension and sealing are part of supervisory measures. Administrative sanctions will follow in accordance with applicable regulations,” he said.

KKP stressed that the Kura-Kura Bali area hosts a vital mangrove ecosystem that protects coastlines from abrasion, serves as a habitat for marine life, and contributes to carbon absorption through the blue carbon scheme.

The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining a balance between economic interests and environmental sustainability, in line with the blue economy policy promoted by Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono.

The suspension sends a strong signal that any violations in marine spatial utilization will face firm action to ensure the long-term sustainability of Indonesia’s coastal ecosystems.