“Pantai Serangan” (Serangan Beach) has recently appeared on Google Maps as “Pantai Kura-Kura” (Turtle Beach). The name change sparks concerns from locals about cultural and historical sensitivities.
Legislator I Nyoman Parta criticized the renaming of the beach to Pantai Kura-Kura Bali, emphasizing the cultural importance of preserving local heritage.
“Beach names are not just a string of letters; they are tied to the history and spirituality of the community,” Parta said on 27 January.
He pointed to investors as the culprit of the name change and said investors should not have the right to rename public spaces. “If every investor is allowed to rename beaches, Bali’s identity will be eroded,” added the PDI-P politician.
Calls for Government Intervention
Parta urged the Bali Provincial Government, Denpasar City Government, and the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) to investigate the issue. He also announced plans to meet with PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID), the developer managing the site
One resident, identified as MS, voiced frustration over the lack of consultation. “Why was the name change not discussed with the community, especially with Serangan residents?” MS asked.
PT BTID Denies Renaming the Beach
However, in response, PT BTID denied renaming Serangan Beach. Zakki Hakim, Head of Communications and Community Relations for PT BTID, explained that the name Pantai Kura-Kura emerged during the 2024 World Water Forum (WWF), which drew international attention.
“The name was used during the forum, which hosted around 3.000 guests. We didn’t rename the beach,” Zakki clarified.
Zakki also noted that the name’s appearance on platforms like Google could not be controlled by the company. “Google is a public domain where anyone can post information,” he said.
He added that the beach in question is still under development, with limited public access. “There is only one building on the site, and the area remains under construction,” Zakki explained.
Open to Dialogue
PT BTID expressed willingness to engage with the community to address concerns.
“As managers of the Kura-Kura Bali Special Economic Zone, we respect and uphold Bali’s cultural heritage. If the name causes public unrest, we are open to feedback,” Zakki said.
He also claimed that the company has maintained good relations with the Serangan community. “We involve local residents in every event we organize,” Zakki added.
DPRD Bali to Summon PT BTID
The Bali DPRD plans to summon PT BTID for clarification regarding the name change.
“We will call the company next week,” said Agus Bagus Pratiksa Linggih, Chairman of DPRD Bali’s Commission II. Linggih, a Golkar Party politician, stated that public facilities like beaches must remain accessible to everyone.
“Investing in land doesn’t mean owning the beach as well,” Linggih emphasized.
