
A US$20 billion plan to build an underground light railway in Indonesia’s Bali has stalled due to wary investors and concerns over land scarcity, throwing into question whether the island’s long-promised solution to solve its notorious traffic gridlock will ever get off the ground.
More than a year after its ceremonial groundbreaking, the “Bali Urban Subway” remains in the feasibility-study phase. Officials once hailed the project as a game changer that would ease congestion and preserve the island’s tourism appeal, but progress has been dogged by financing and land acquisition hurdles.
The venture began with fanfare when the Bali government and Sarana Bali Dwipa Jaya (SBDJ), which oversees the project, launched a Hindu cleansing ritual, or ngeruwak, at the construction site in September last year. At the time, SBDJ announced Sinar Bali Karya as the main contractor, which would team up with another local firm Indotek and China Railway Construction Corporation.
Bumi Indah Prima, a consortium of Indonesian companies, was tapped as lead investor and in December bought land near the sacred Tanah Lot temple from property tycoon Hary Tanoesoedibjo’s MNC Land for 5.5 trillion rupiah (US$331.6 million).
Ari Askhara, president director of SBDJ, eventually stepped down from the position because of personal reasons, his successor Dodi Miharjana said in April.
“Our main focus remains on ensuring the smooth running of the Bali subway project, and that it continues as planned,” Dodi said, as cited by news outlet Detik Bali.
“I’m confident there will be no change in commitment because the project’s fundamentals are sound.”
In June, Bali Governor Wayan Koster signed an agreement with the Jakarta government to help the island “prepare a thorough plan [for the subway] in accordance with regional characteristics and local culture”. Jakarta has a subway, built by Japan, which has been operating since 2019.

Passengers inside Jakarta’s subway, which has been operating since 2019. A similar system is being planned for Bali. Photo: Shutterstock
In a statement in June, Wayan said that the project was “very promising because its primary target is tourists holidaying in Bali”. However, the project’s main problem was “finding willing investors, given the significant investment required”, he added.
In July, Dodi told news outlet Tribun Bali that the project was still in the feasibility study and design outline phase, adding that drilling with tunnel boring machines, which was initially planned for May, could not begin.
To this day, the feasibility study has yet to be published, while the construction timeline remains vague. The Bali Urban Subway’s official account on Instagram stopped posting in November last year.
‘Too ambitious’
For Balinese like Ida Bagus Raka Suardana, the delayed construction of the underground railway raises a question: “Is this big project the right solution for Bali?”
“From the outset, this project has generated a debate, from its economic feasibility, infrastructure readiness, to sociocultural impact on the local community. A subway is indeed a rational solution to the serious problem of traffic congestion,” Raka Suardana, a professor of economics and business at the University of National Education in Denpasar, told This Week in Asia.
“However, the investment for this subway is very high. There are issues of land limitations, construction complexity, as well as disaster risk.”
The traffic congestion in Bali had become “irritating” with the 12km (7.5-mile) drive from Denpasar to Canggu, a tourist hotspot, taking up to three hours, Raka Suardana said.

Tourists walk at a shopping area in Seminyak, Bali. More than 6 million foreign tourists visited Bali last year. Photo: EPA
The Bali government is aiming for the project to be fully funded by private investors instead of getting financial support from local or central governments. Analysts say attracting investors will be difficult given the project’s complexity.
Putu Rumawan Salain, an expert in spatial and urban planning at Udayana University, said the project was “too ambitious and seems like empty talk”.
“Private investors would consider the significant costs involved, especially since there may already be public resistance. I think that no one dares to invest heavily [in this project],” Putu said.
Aditya Dwi Laksana, head of the railway sector of the transport-focused Indonesian Transportation Society NGO, said the project underlined the difficulties in implementing railway infrastructure projects in Indonesia.
“Financing and land acquisition will be challenges, not to mention the uncertain return on investment. Currently, there is no visible private sector initiative to execute any railway infrastructure projects here,” Aditya said.
“These include Bali, where the area is already very dense and the road network is narrow, making construction more complex due to the need to build elevated or underground structures, which will undoubtedly be very costly.”
Contractors must also respect Bali’s customary laws, including a height restriction that buildings cannot be taller than a coconut tree or 15 metres (49 feet), to protect sacred temples or pura. This constraint means the railway would have to be built at least 30 meters underground, demanding more investment and time than building an above-ground system.
Prabowo’s silence deepens doubts over Indonesia’s dream capital of Nusantara
Alternative solutions
Raka Suardana proposed that the Bali government consider solutions other than the underground railway, such as limiting the number of vehicles through high taxes, “like in Singapore”.
“There must also be a regulation on the number of passengers. For example, a requirement of a minimum of three passengers in one car, or an odd licence [number] on odd days rule,” he said.
Aditya argued that Bali should promote a “culture of using public transport”, as private vehicles still dominated its roads.
Data from Bali’s statistics agency shows that the number of motorcycles and cars on the island reached around 5 million last year, an increase from 4.8 million in 2023. By contrast, the total road length was recorded at 8,706km (5,409 miles), down from 9,835km in 2020.
“After [ensuring] road-based public transport is optimal, the study for the underground railway can be carried out carefully and comprehensively, which can include demand and financial aspects, traffic impact analysis during construction and environmental impact,” Aditya said.
For Putu, there should also be efforts to “reduce the number of tourists” so that they “don’t destroy this beautiful Bali”.
More than 6 million foreign tourists visited Bali last year, exceeding the island’s own population of 4.3 million. Indonesia posted tourism revenue of US$16.7 billion, accounting for 4 per cent of gross domestic product.
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This Week's Bali News
Bali’s Benoa Harbour Gets Major Upgrade with New Maritime Tourism Hub, Get the Details Here

The Bali Maritime Tourism Hub represents the most significant transformation of Benoan Fishing Port to date. Benoan Fishing Port has had a long history of transformations from a small fishing port to be the world-class luxury marine tourism port. Since the port is situated towards the south of Bali island, it has easy access to the Indian Ocean and other international cruising locations which further supports Bali Maritime Hub’s construction...

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An infostealer and banking Trojan rolled into one is making the rounds in Facebook groups aimed at “active seniors”.
Attackers used social engineering methods to lure targets into joining fake Facebook groups that appeared to promote travel and community activities—such as trips, dance classes, and community gatherings.
Blog With Photos & Details Here

Bali and Lombok have been chosen as the best islands in Asia in the 2025 Readers' Choice Awards by the global travel magazine Conde Nast Traveller. On October 7, 2025, the list was announced, placing Bali in first place and Lombok in second place with respective scores of 96.86 and 94.86 out of 100.
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Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport power outage disrupts 74 flights

I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali recorded 74 flights affected by a power outage on Friday evening.
"The power outage affected 42 international flights and 32 domestic flights," the airport's general manager, Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, said on Saturday.
The Bali Climatology Station of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) issued an early warning of potential extreme drought in Tejakula Sub-District, Buleleng District, Bali, Indonesia.
Head of the Bali Climatology Station, Aminudin Ar Roniri, when confirmed here on Saturday, explained that the potential for extreme drought is not projected to spread because December 2025 is expected to be the start of the rainy season.
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How a Century of Tourism Shaped the Bali We Know Today
IN 1931, A BALINESE dance troupe performed daily for the elite at the Exposition Coloniale in Paris. Their stage was a faux temple courtyard in the Dutch Pavilion, with stone altars, carved towers, and a replica candi bentar gate. For months, Parisians filed through the exhibit, enchanted by a vision of Bali both intimate and theatrical. This faraway island in the Dutch East Indies had stepped onto the world stage, framed as a place of wonder, mystery, and beauty.
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Bali Airport Expands Flight Connectivity, Serves 18M Travelers in Jan–Sep 2025

Jakarta. Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport served around 18.23 million passengers between January and September 2025, up 1 percent from the same period last year.
The airport’s international routes saw stronger growth, with 11.53 million passengers recorded during the nine-month period, an increase of 9 percent year-on-year.
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Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono reviewed the progress of the breakwater construction at Kuta Beach, Bali, on Monday, October 13, 2025. The breakwater was built along the coastline between Kuta and Seminyak, stretching 5.3 kilometers, said the minister.
A prominent tourist destination, Agus said the breakwater construction at Kuta Beach is aimed at preventing coastal abrasion.
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Disruptions At Bali Airport Trigger Calls From Leaders To Speed Up Development Of New North Bali Terminals

Momentum is building on the North Bali International Airport project. The development has been in the pipeline for nearly a decade, and leaders across the province are keen to ensure that this is the time that the idea for a new transportation hub finally comes to fruition.
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Bali’s Monsoon Season Readiness, Protecting Tourists and Ensuring Smooth Travel Experiences: What you need to know

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Last Weeks Bali News
Volcanic Eruption In Indonesia Grounds Bali Flights
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki’s powerful ash cloud disrupts travel, triggers evacuations, and highlights the region’s ongoing volcanic hazards. Flights in and out of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destination, Bali, ground to a halt this week after Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, a volcano on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara province, erupted with dramatic force.
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Experts Confirm Bali At Risk Of More Flooding In Top Tourism Destinations


Recent flooding in Bali left vast swathes of Denpasar and Badung regencies devastated.
With thousands of families experiencing damage to their homes and businesses, as well as massive damage to infrastructure, the incoming monsoon season will pose a severe test for communities across Bali, including the tourism industry.
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Bali’s Lake Batur Set for Tourism Transformation with New Eco-Friendly Cruise


Bali’s Lake Batur, nestled in the picturesque Kintamani region, is set to become the pivotal point of a major tourism revival. While Kintamani has long been recognized as the gateway to Bali’s iconic Mount Batur, the last few years have seen the region rapidly transform into a thriving hub for international tourists. With new developments on the horizon, including an exciting new cruise experience, the future of tourism in Kintamani is brighter than ever.
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All Indonesia App Becomes Mandatory For All Tourists Visiting Bali

Tourists traveling to Bali, as well as any destination in Indonesia, are now required to use the new digital arrivals card system.
The All Indonesia application system has been in trial for just over a month, and as of October 1st, it is now mandatory for all travelers arriving at all international airports and harbors.
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🌕 Full Moon Magic in Bali – The Spiritual Beauty of Purnama
One of the most beautiful things about Bali is how deeply spirituality is woven into everyday life. Among the many sacred traditions of Balinese Hinduism, the Full Moon Ceremony (Purnama) holds a special place.
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IndiGo Announces Bold Expansion with New Direct Flights from Delhi to Manchester, UK, and Exciting New Services to Bali and Krabi Starting This Month

IndiGo is set to significantly expand its global and domestic network, offering more travel options for both international and local passengers. The airline has announced a series of new routes, marking its continued growth and commitment to enhancing travel connectivity.
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Bali’s Newest Landmark Set To Encourage More Tourists To Explore Island’s North

Bali’s newest landmark, the Turyapada Tower, is poised to help encourage a whole new wave of tourists to visit the north of Bali.
The project is now entering its second phase of development, which will involve building a ring road to improve access, as well as developing a gondola-style attraction at the tower site, and more.
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I’ve driven down Jalan Tamblingan in Sanur on Bali's East Coast for nearly three decades, and what I’ve seen in the last few months is nothing short of remarkable.
The government has embarked on one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Sanur’s history—transforming Sanur into a model of modern living.
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Bali, Indonesia: New Tourism Regulations Require Hotels to Adopt Eco-Friendly Practices Amid Waste Management Challenges

To solve waste management issues on top of the bad flooding on the island, the Indonesian Minister for Environment, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, asked the top hotels and resorts on Bali to become more green. This is a change for the government in Bali in regard to waste management in the tourism and hospitality departments. Tourists are encouraged to stay at the hotels that focus on waste management and other green initiatives.
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Bali’s Best Destinations for Every Type of Traveler in 2025 from Cultural Hubs to Serene Beaches and Hidden Retreats

Bali is a paradise that offers something for every type of traveler, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in 2025. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a beach lover, or someone in search of tranquility, Bali has it all. From its vibrant cultural hubs like Ubud, where art and spirituality converge, to its serene beaches such as Seminyak and Lovina, perfect for sunbathing and water sports, there’s no shortage of diverse experiences.
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This Week's New Special Real Estate Deal
RETIRE IN BALI – BALI LUXURY RETIREMENT VILLAS

An extraordinary retirement haven, where your dreams of a serene and fulfilling Bali lifestyle come to life.

When it comes to retirement, choosing the right location can make all the difference. Bali’s East Coast, with its tranquil beaches, breathtaking scenery, and pure air, offers an idyllic setting for your golden years.Bali Luxury Retirement Villas Saba Bali Indonesia

Imagine starting your day with a leisurely walk on the beach, feeling the soft sand between your toes and the gentle ocean breeze on your face.
Our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas are just a short 200 meter stroll from a picturesque beach which is considered by many tourists and locals alike as one of the best beaches for families on Bali’s East Coast, inviting you to embrace the island’s natural beauty.
Safe and Family-Friendly:
Pantai Saba Beach, renowned for its safety and calm waters, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the company of loved ones. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning views, you’ll find peace and serenity here.
Spectacular Sunrises:

Bali’s East Coast air, carried by trade winds and largely untouched by pollution, is a breath of fresh air – literally. Studies show that clean air contributes to longevity and improved health, making it a valuable asset for retirees.
Bali Oasis: Designed for Retirement Living
Returning to your private villa after a day of exploration or relaxation feels like a true homecoming.
We’ve meticulously designed these homes with the needs and desires of retirees in mind.
Solid Teak front entrance door Ensures strong security and long lasting quality with very little upkeep.
Forget about the upkeep of a large house. Our villas are thoughtfully sized to minimize maintenance, allowing you to focus on enjoying your retirement to the fullest.
Private Carport:

Open & Airy:
Refresh and Rejuvenate:
Start your day with an invigorating swim in your optional private pool.
It’s the perfect way to stay active and energized, right at your doorstep.
Enjoy year-round comfort with air conditioning in living areas and bedrooms.
Screen doors let in the refreshing ocean breeze during cooler months most of the year. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Main Entrance with Tinted glass
Energy Efficiency:
Reflective glass windows reduce air conditioning costs, keeping your home cool and comfortable while saving you money.
High Quality Finishing:
Durable & Stylish: Granito-style tile floors offer timeless beauty and require minimal upkeep. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Floors.
We understand that your retirement home should be a sanctuary – a place where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the best that life has to offer.
That’s why we’ve poured our hearts into designing villas that cater to the unique needs of baby boomers.

Durable tile floors and high-quality cabinetry minimize upkeep, so you can spend your time doing what you love.
Relax, Entertain, and Savor: Your Villa’s Heart and Soul
Beyond the tranquil bedrooms and refreshing pool lies the heart of your villa – a space designed for relaxation, connection, and culinary delights.
Unwind in Style:
Sink into the plush comfort of a brand-new recliner couch, perfect for unwinding with a good book or enjoying a movie night.
Stay Connected:
Invite friends over for a cozy gathering or stretch out and savor the peaceful ambiance.
A dedicated workstation, complete with self-charging ports and ample lighting, ensures you can stay connected with loved ones, manage your finances, and pursue your online passions.

Step into your private courtyard garden, a serene oasis where you can meditate, enjoy your morning coffee, or simply bask in the beauty of nature.

The dining area, with its elegant solid teak table and seating for four, sets the stage for memorable meals with family and friends.

The well-appointed kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring:
Ample counter space and storage.

Custom-made cabinetry adds a touch of elegance, provides even more convenience.
With affordable housekeeping services readily available, you can spend less time on chores and more time enjoying your retirement.


Custom-Designed: Every detail, from the spacious bed to the ample wardrobe space, has been carefully considered to create a luxurious and functional space.
Vanity Area: A well-lit vanity with a large mirror ensures you can prepare for your day in style.
Huge closets and wardrobes with plenty of storage space
Massive Backdrop with makeup mirror and table with plenty of natural light.


Indulge in the ultimate pampering experience in your elegant bathroom, featuring:
Dual Sinks: His and hers sinks offer convenience and add a touch of luxury.
Soaking Tub: Relax and unwind in the spacious tub, complete with a safety handle for easy access.
Relax and unwind as you enjoy your courtyard garden
Open the screen window and have fresh air come into your bathtub. How nice is that?

Open-Air Shower:

The private bathroom offers a full-size shower for added convenience.
Guest Suite: Comfort and Convenience:Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom
Your guests will feel right at home in the comfortable and well-appointed guest suite.
It also has a beautiful view of the garden court which allows lots of light for the makeup mirror and the full sized dressing mirror.
With its own private bathroom and ample wardrobe space, it’s the perfect place for friends and family to stay when they visit.
Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom TV Backdrop
Lovely bathroom with shower.
This guest bedroom comes equipped with a slightly smaller bathroom but still with a loveless sink and full size shower and toilet.
Security and Peace of Mind:

Experience the luxury and comfort of our thoughtfully designed Bali Luxury Retirement Villa .
Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover the perfect place to call home in Bali.
With 27 years of experience building in Bali, we have handpicked this location to provide the perfect blend of convenience, tranquility, and access to essential amenities.
The Kasih Ibu Hospital, just a 5-minute drive away, provides excellent emergency care and a range of wellness programs for baby boomers.
Kasih Ibu Hospital Saba 5 Min Drive
For more specialized needs, the brand-new Bali International Hospital, a 20-minute drive, offers world-class medical services, including anti-aging treatments and specialized care.
Bali International Hospital 20 Min Drive

Plus, affordable housekeeping services allow you to spend your time enjoying retirement, not doing chores.

Bali’s low cost of living, combined with the potential for rental income from your villa, allows you to stretch your retirement savings further and enjoy a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle.
Don’t miss out!
Only one Villa available at this time – Discounted by 5%
Experience the benefits of a prime location in Bali. Contact us today to learn more about our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas and start planning your dream retirement.
Bali Luxury Retirement Villas present a unique opportunity. Here, your retirement dreams and financial goals can intertwine.
Affordable Luxury:
Imagine daily massages, gourmet dining, and exciting adventures, all within your reach.
Family Haven: Your loved ones will be eager to visit you in paradise. No more worrying about expensive flights for family reunions – they’ll be booking their tickets as soon as they can!
Investment Potential: Bali’s real estate market is booming, especially for properties catering to retirees. With long-term lease options and strong rental demand, your villa can generate a steady income stream, adding to your financial security.
The Numbers Make Sense:
Starting at just 4.6 Miliar IDR (for other currencies exchange rates click here), our villas are a fraction of the cost of comparable properties in many Western countries.
Secure Long Term Leases Included:
Secure Your Bali Legacy:
Forget the typical Bali lease worries. We offer you an unparalleled opportunity to own your tropical paradise for up to three generations.
Unmatched Flexibility & Control: Resell your lease, pass it on to loved ones, or simply enjoy your villa for many decades to come. The choice is entirely yours.
Prime Location, Exclusive Clientele: Nestled in a sought-after area, our villas cater to discerning individuals aged 55-75 seeking a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle.
Stand Out From the Crowd: Most Bali villas come with remaining lease terms of 20-30 years. Your exceptional long term leases is an exceptional investment, offering peace of mind and long-term value.
Interested in learning more about this unique opportunity? We prefer to discuss the details in private.
Please contact us to schedule a personalized consultation.

Estimated monthly rental incomes for similar villas at our currrent rental rates equal 20,000,000 Idr to 30 million Rupiah per month.
You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out your villa can become a lucrative investment, allowing you to enjoy your retirement while building your wealth.
You may in fact want to purchase two. One for your retirement and one for strictly investment which can also be utilized from time to time to accommodate the multiple amount of children, grandchildren and friends that will want to come visit you in Bali which is currently the second most sought after destination in the world.
Live Your Dream, Grow Your Wealth:
Imagine a retirement where you can indulge in your passions, travel, and spend quality time with loved ones, all while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle and watching your investment flourish.
ONLY ONE PROPERTY AVAILABLE.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY –ACT NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT:

We only have BLRV-A-1 available for sale at this moment.
Priced To Sell:
Discounted 5 % Until Oct 30 th. 2024.
Sales Price 4.48 Miliar
Live in the place the world is raving about!
Contact us today to learn more about this Great retirement opportunity
For English or Bahasa Indonesia call Azizah, a registered Notaris at +62 811-3864-993

“The owners of this company are the perfect combination of long-time international experience and in-depth subject-matter knowledge and relevant local expertise, networking, and the right licenses to run this business and advise their clients. The properties on offer are at prime locations with huge growth”
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