Bali Governor Koster Cancels Nusa Penida Glass Elevator Project, Marking a Monumental Victory for Environmental Preservation and Cultural Heritage

Published on December 2, 2025

The Nusa Penida Glass Elevator Project, once hailed as an ambitious feat of engineering, has been officially axed after a series of devastating permit violations and alarming environmental concerns.

The Nusa Penida Glass Elevator Project, once hailed as an ambitious feat of engineering, has been officially axed after a series of devastating permit violations and alarming environmental concerns. Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster made the bold decision to shut down the controversial project at Kelingking Beach, a decision that has sparked fierce debate across the island. Despite its potential to transform tourism on Nusa Penida, the project faced severe scrutiny after an investigation revealed critical legal failures and significant risks to the area’s fragile ecosystem. In a decisive move to protect Bali’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, Governor Koster ordered the immediate demolition of the elevator’s infrastructure, signaling a monumental victory for environmental preservation. As Bali continues to grapple with the balance between development and conservation, this dramatic decision marks a turning point in the future of tourism on the island.

The Nusa Penida Glass Elevator Project has been one of the most controversial development plans in Bali in recent years. Initially envisioned as a landmark tourism attraction, the project sought to install a 182-meter glass elevator along the cliffside of Kelingking Beach, one of Bali’s most famous and picturesque spots. However, after months of construction and growing concerns from the public, Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster officially axed the project in November 2025, citing numerous violations in its permits and environmental impact concerns.

A Brief History of the Project

The Nusa Penida Glass Elevator was conceived as a way to provide tourists with a breathtaking view of Kelingking Beach, which is often described as one of the most stunning beaches in the world. The idea was to create an elevator shaft extending 182 meters down the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Construction began in 2024, and for over a year, the project was under development, drawing attention from both supporters and critics.

However, as the project progressed, concerns about its legality and environmental impact grew louder. An investigation into the project’s building permits and licenses revealed several serious violations. Among these violations were issues with the zoning approvals, lack of proper environmental assessments, and discrepancies in the permits issued for construction. These concerns led to increased scrutiny from local authorities and environmental groups.

The Official Halt: Governor Koster’s Announcement

On November 23rd, 2025, Governor Wayan Koster made the decision to shut down the project. During a press conference, Koster revealed that he had ordered PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group, the company responsible for the project, to cease all construction activities immediately. Additionally, he issued an order for the demolition of all structures associated with the Glass Elevator, setting a deadline of six months for the deconstruction.

Koster emphasized the importance of restoring the natural beauty of the area, stating:

six months, and restore the function of the space after the demolition within a maximum of three months.”

This decision was a response to the project’s numerous violations and its growing opposition from local communities and environmental activists. Koster’s announcement marked a significant turning point in the debate over Bali’s tourism development and its impact on the island’s natural landscape.

Reactions: A Divided Community

Governor Koster’s decision to cancel the Glass Elevator project has sparked a mix of reactions from the local community and the broader tourism industry. Supporters of the project argue that it had the potential to provide a much-needed economic boost to Nusa Penida, one of Bali’s lesser-developed regions. The elevator would have attracted a new wave of tourists, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. Many in the tourism sector believed that the project could have been a symbol of innovation and modernity for Bali.

However, there has been significant pushback from environmentalists, cultural preservationists, and sections of the Balinese community. For many, the Glass Elevator was seen as an intrusive development that would damage the natural beauty of Kelingking Beach and compromise the area’s ecological balance. In the eyes of these critics, the project was a threat to the island’s heritage, which relies heavily on its pristine landscapes and traditional ways of life.

The decision to cancel the project has thus been celebrated by those who advocate for preserving Bali’s natural and cultural heritage. These groups view the axing of the Glass Elevator as a victory for sustainable tourism and a demonstration that Bali’s government is willing to prioritize environmental and cultural concerns over short-term economic gains.

Governor Koster’s Long-Term Vision for Kelingking Beach

While the demolition of the Glass Elevator is a clear sign of Governor Koster’s commitment to environmental preservation, it also reflects a broader vision for Nusa Penida’s future. The governor’s long-term goal is to develop tourism on the island in a way that balances economic growth with sustainability. Koster has hinted that future developments at Kelingking Beach will focus on enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the area’s natural integrity.

Koster’s vision involves promoting responsible tourism, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of Bali’s landscapes without causing harm to the environment. As part of this vision, Koster has stressed that Kelingking Beach will remain a hiking destination, where visitors can explore its stunning views on foot. However, the beach will also continue to be a no-swim zone, as is the case with nearby Diamond Beach. These measures are in place to ensure both the safety of tourists and the protection of the area’s ecosystem.

The Future of Nusa Penida: A Shift Toward Sustainability

The cancellation of the Nusa Penida Glass Elevator Project marks a critical moment in Bali’s tourism development. It signals a shift in priorities, one that focuses on sustainable, responsible tourism practices. Bali’s leadership is now grappling with how to balance the demand for new infrastructure and attractions with the need to protect the island’s unique cultural and environmental assets.

The Nusa Penida Glass Elevator Project, while controversial, has ignited an important conversation about the future of Bali’s tourism. It has brought to light the challenges of preserving the island’s natural beauty in the face of growing global tourism. As Bali moves forward, the decision to scrap the Glass Elevator should be seen as a necessary step toward protecting the island’s future, ensuring that the paradise that so many love remains intact for generations to come.

Conclusion: The Price of Progress

The Nusa Penida Glass Elevator Project, with all its promise of modernity and tourist appeal, has ultimately fallen victim to the need for balance between development and preservation. Governor Koster’s decision to halt the project and order its demolition reflects a growing awareness of the importance of environmental and cultural conservation in Bali’s tourism strategy. As the island moves forward, the focus will likely shift toward creating tourism experiences that are both innovative and respectful of the land and traditions that make Bali unique. In this way, Bali’s future can be secured, not at the expense of its natural beauty, but in harmony with it.