DENPASAR, ULTIMOPARADISO.COM – The management of PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID), which oversees the Kura Kura Bali Special Economic Zone (SEZ), recently met directly with Bali Governor Wayan Koster at his official residence, Jaya Sabha, Denpasar. During the warm discussion, BTID President Commissioner Tantowi Yahya shared some key messages conveyed by Governor Koster.
“This meeting had been planned for a long time. We came to congratulate Mr. Wayan Koster on his re-election as Governor of Bali, as well as to provide a comprehensive update on the progress of the Kura Kura Bali SEZ,” said Tantowi during a press conference at UID Bali Campus on Monday, March 24, 2025.
Accompanying Tantowi at the meeting with the Governor were BTID’s top executives, including the President Director, Vice President Director, and two senior staff members. According to Tantowi, Governor Koster firmly conveyed important messages to BTID, particularly regarding the commitment to maintaining harmony with the Serangan community and preserving local culture.
“He emphasized that Kura Kura Bali should continue fostering good communication with the residents of Serangan Village and remain committed to Balinese cultural values and culture-based tourism,” he explained.
Tantowi also stated that during the meeting, BTID openly reported both achievements and challenges, including negative media coverage and social media opinions that have impacted the investment climate at Kura Kura Bali SEZ.
“We laid everything out honestly. Nothing was hidden. We also expressed our concerns about issues that have unfairly targeted BTID and the Satpol PP officers assigned to the Serangan Lagoon area,” said the former Ambassador to New Zealand.
Previously, the Head of Bali Province’s Satpol PP, Dewa Nyoman Rai Dharmadi, asserted that the presence of Satpol PP is actually to ensure that small fishermen can still pass through the Lagoon area, albeit under necessary supervision due to the presence of a deep trench in the area.
“This is especially important for non-Serangan residents who may not fully understand the characteristics of the waters there,” he added.
The Governor’s response was reportedly very positive. “He took our concerns seriously and said he would help resolve the issue without disrupting the good relationship we have maintained with the Serangan Village community,” Tantowi added.
This statement was made at a joint press conference attended by the Head of Serangan Village, Jro Bendesa Serangan, and the Chairman of the Denpasar MDA (Traditional Village Council). These community leaders agreed to clarify circulating information and refute hoaxes that they believe have been distorted by irresponsible parties. ***
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