Bali’s regional legislative council, DPRD Bali, has recommended the temporary closure of Finns Beach Club over permit issues, following a meeting on 13 February 2025.
The beach club, located in Berawa, North Kuta, has faced scrutiny for failing to complete its licensing requirements despite prior warnings from the provincial government.
The club had previously been given a 60-working-day deadline by the Bali Provincial Government to comply with licensing regulations, but it failed to do so.
Finns Beach Club’s Community Director, I Wayan Asrama, acknowledged the delay, citing bureaucratic hurdles due to the club’s status as a foreign investment business (PMA), which requires permits to be processed in Jakarta.
“We can’t say how long it will take to complete the permits. For example, the environmental impact analysis (AMDAL) requires hearings, and we don’t know when we will get our turn,” Asrama explained.
Fireworks Controversy and Cultural Sensitivities
In addition to the permit issues, Finns Beach Club has recently garnered public attention following a recent brawl between foreign-national customers and the club’s security guards.
The closure recommendation also follows controversy over a fireworks display at Finns Beach Club in October 2024, which coincided with a sacred Hindu ceremony at Berawa Beach.
The incident sparked backlash, with critics accusing the club of disregarding local customs.
Asrama expressed regret over the incident, calling it an unintentional mistake.
“Ninety-nine percent of our staff are Balinese Hindus. This incident was shocking and deeply affected us,” he said, emphasizing the club’s close ties with the local customary village.
The club has since taken steps to make amends, including conducting a Guru Bendu Piduka ritual at Berawa Beach on 25 October 2024 and presenting offerings to the family conducting the ceremony.
According to Finns Beach Club’s HRD representative, Putu, the management also followed religious guidance from a Hindu priest in Griya Sesetan and performed a purification ritual at sea.
Official Warnings and Future Steps
Deputy Chairman of Commission I DPRD Bali, I Dewa Nyoman Rai, reminded Finns Beach Club to respect local traditions. He noted that police recommendations had stipulated that fireworks should only be set off within the club’s premises, not in public spaces.
“I personally forgive this incident, but in terms of religion and culture, we must prioritize tradition,” Rai said.
With the council’s recommendation in place, Finns Beach Club management has stated they will discuss the decision internally before determining their next steps.
