Authorities in Bali have temporarily suspended construction of a 182-metre tall glass elevator at Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida island, following widespread outrage from local residents. The project, developed by China Kaishi Group, began in July 2023 and has drawn criticism for marring the iconic view of the cliffside rock formation that resembles a T-rex silhouette.
The Indonesian tourism ministry stated it has supervised the project to ensure sustainability, safety, and cleanliness. However, Bali officials halted work on Friday, citing a lack of necessary permits. I Made Supartha, head of a planning and permits committee in the Bali legislature, said enforcement would proceed if spatial regulations were violated.
The developer plans to include two external sightseeing elevators, a sky cafe, restaurant, and a 400-square-metre panoramic overlook. The company claims the elevator will boost tourism and provide safe access to the beach, which currently requires a nearly two-hour climb down steep cliffs. However, Kelingking Beach is closed to swimming due to dangerous currents, and a French tourist recently died there after entering the water.
Local resident Made Sediana expressed dismay, stating the beautiful view has been destroyed and that tourists visit for the panorama, not lifts. Indonesian Senator Niluh Djelantik, a vocal opponent, called the project a disaster waiting to happen, citing hazardous ocean conditions. Despite the controversy, a deputy ministry official noted that visitor numbers to the beach rose over 35% between 2023 and 2024.
