BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR — Tensions escalated during a surprise inspection conducted by the Special Committee on Spatial Planning, Assets, and Licensing (TRAP) of the Bali Regional House of Representatives (DPRD Bali) at the Kura-Kura Bali area on Thursday (April 23, 2026). The committee discovered alleged mangrove clearing activities linked to PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID).

The finding immediately sparked outrage from TRAP Committee Chairman I Made Supartha, who reacted strongly upon witnessing the condition of the damaged mangrove forest.

“This is unacceptable. Mangroves are protected under Law No. 26 of 2007. Regardless of whether the land falls under a Building Use Rights Certificate (SHGB), it cannot justify arbitrary destruction,” Supartha said firmly at the inspection site.

In response, the TRAP Committee swiftly took action. Supartha instructed Bali’s Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) to seal off the area with boundary lines, effectively halting all ongoing activities at the location.

Meanwhile, PT BTID argued that the clearing was carried out within an area covered by its SHGB permit. However, the justification was firmly rejected by the committee.

Supartha stressed that mangroves are legally protected ecosystems and cannot be cut down indiscriminately, regardless of land certification status. He also underscored the critical ecological role mangroves play in coastal protection and environmental sustainability.

“SHGB is temporary—30 years with a possible 20-year extension—and the land ultimately remains state-owned. Holding an SHGB does not grant the right to destroy mangroves at will,” he asserted.

The TRAP Committee confirmed it will escalate the القضية to legal authorities. It also plans to recommend a comprehensive evaluation of the SHGB held by PT BTID as part of further action over the alleged violations.