Bali halts China-backed lift project, but how was it approved in the first place?

Indonesia has a ‘governance paradox’, with the central government often permitting projects that go against local vision, experts say

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Before and after images of Kelingking Beach on the island of Nusa Penida. Photo: X / pendakilawas

Published: 6:15pm, 25 Nov 2025Updated: 7:04pm, 25 Nov 2025

The governor of Bali has ordered the permanent shutdown of a controversial China-backed glass lift project on one of the island’s iconic cliffs, following widespread public backlash that erupted after photos of the construction went viral.

Analysts say the decision reflects broader concerns about how major tourism projects in Indonesia move through a fragmented permit system, with some describing the lift as a case study in how central government approvals can collide with local priorities.

Speaking on Sunday, Bali Governor I Wayan Koster said: “I decided to take firm action, by ordering PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group to stop all glass elevator construction activities.”

The 200 billion rupiah (US$12 million) project called for a 182-metre (597-foot) glass lift and a 64-metre (210-foot) bridge to ease access to Kelingking Beach on Bali’s Nusa Penida island, a tourism magnet famed for its striking “T-Rex” shaped cliff.

Tourists currently descend a roughly 300-metre (980-foot) slope via a narrow and often treacherous path, with injuries common during the climb.

Kelingking Beach, as seen on September 24. Photo: Ralph Jennings

The lift was being developed by China-funded PT Indonesia Kaishi in partnership with local firm PT Bina Nusa Properti.

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