The governor of Bali has ordered the permanent shutdown of a controversial China-backed glass lift project on one of the island’s iconic cliffs, following widespread public backlash that erupted after photos of the construction went viral.
Analysts say the decision reflects broader concerns about how major tourism projects in Indonesia move through a fragmented permit system, with some describing the lift as a case study in how central government approvals can collide with local priorities.
Speaking on Sunday, Bali Governor I Wayan Koster said: “I decided to take firm action, by ordering PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group to stop all glass elevator construction activities.”
