Keramas Beach in Gianyar has transformed into a world-class surfing hotspot over the past two decades. Renowned for its powerful waves, the beach has attracted experienced surfers from across the globe since the early 2000s.
Recently, a proposal by PT Swan Rose International to construct a floating restaurant and a marina in Keramas Beach has has elicited mixed reactions, following a public meeting on Dec. 15, 2024.
A Divisive Proposal
The public consultation, held at the Wantilan Pura Desa Keramas, was organized by the Keramas Village Government and attended by local leaders, community representatives, and tourism industry players.
During the session, vocal opposition emerged from Komune Resort, a major local stakeholder reliant on surfing tourism. Resort staff and management submitted a comprehensive rejection of the marina project, citing concerns over environmental, social, and economic consequences.
Eka Jayantara, General Manager of Komune Resort, expressed these concerns to reporters, stating, “The proposed marina poses significant risks to the environment, local livelihoods, and Keramas’ global reputation as a surfing destination.”
Key Concerns
Opponents of the project outlined several objections:
- Environmental Risks: Critics warned of coastal erosion, destruction of lava reef ecosystems, and disruption of high-energy wave zones vital for surfing.
- Economic Impact: The project could jeopardize the livelihoods of locals and deter thousands of surfing tourists annually, harming the beach’s global image.
- Cultural and Spiritual Threats: The marina’s construction was seen as a potential threat to Pura Masceti, a sacred site integral to local heritage.
- Technical Feasibility: Questions were raised about the project’s practicality, drawing comparisons to the challenges faced by Sanur Port.
- Viable Alternatives: Opponents suggested exploring other locations less impactful on Keramas’ unique assets, such as areas with calmer waters north of the beach.
Surfing Legacy at Risk
Keramas Beach has hosted major international surfing events, including the 2019 World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour. Its standing as one of the world’s premier surfing destinations amplifies concerns over the proposed marina’s potential to permanently alter its famed waves.
“Keramas is a global surfing gem,” Jayantara emphasized. “Allowing this project to move forward would be a devastating loss for Bali’s surfing industry.”
Opponents urged PT Swan Rose International to reconsider its plans and engage with local communities to find mutually beneficial alternatives.
PT Swan Rose International has not responded to the objections on record.
