Bali’s Property Market – An Indonesian Perspective

Following a powerful and thought-provoking episode of SpeakuP Monday – Destination Indonesia, the conversation around Bali’s property boom has shifted from mere speculation to critical action. Episode 476 wasn’t just another “property talk” it brought together prominent Indonesian professionals and stakeholders to voice concerns, share solutions, and chart a more sustainable, culturally respectful path forward for both locals and international investors.

With over 80,000 new properties expected to hit the market in the coming years, what’s at stake is more than just ROI it’s the very soul of Bali’s cultural and spiritual fabric, the magnet that attracts millions each year.

So what’s really going on? And what can be done?

The Problem: Three Urgent Challenges out of multiple.

1. Architectural Disconnect: “That Style Isn’t Bali”

One of the loudest messages came from Vigor Agungwaluya Yoshuara, a Founder of Waluya Development:

“If you want to live in a Mediterranean-style apartment, live in the Mediterranean. Don’t transplant that here.”

Many new developments are copying international aesthetics without understanding or honouring Bali’s cultural and architectural legacy. This trend erodes the island’s identity and alienates the very people who’ve stewarded this land for generations. With this, cultural preservation in Bali is under threat, and short-term gains may lead to long-term losses.

2. Landowner Exploitation in Deal Structuring

While foreign investment brings capital, many local landowners are being left behind especially when payments are deferred or structured to benefit only one party. The result? Broken trust and increasing resentment.

Yet, as shared during the episode, the solution is simple: agree on fair pricing upfront and explore profit-sharing models that continue to benefit the local landowner over time. This encourages entrepreneurship in Bali that’s collaborative, not extractive.

3. Violation of Zoning Regulations

From green zones to protected areas, reports of developments being built without proper permits are common, though enforcement is catching up. In a notable case, a multimillion-dollar development in Ubud was shut down and the director jailed. Multiple demolitions and halted constructions signal a turning tide.

This is not the time to cut corners. It’s the time to invest responsibly, legally, and ethically or risk losing everything.

The Solution: Respect, Partnership & Local Integration

Respect. It’s the word that echoed most during the episode. Respect for culture, law, community, and spirit.

These sentiments are echoed by Ni Luh Sari – Managing Director Malekat Hukum

The daughter of a renowned Balinese Architect she has witnessed the rapid shift from rice fields to resorts (in specific regions) from tradition to global influence, including acquiring international experience and understanding living in Europe for multiple years.

These values are deeply embedded in the Balinese way of life through concepts like:
• Tri Hita Karana – Harmony among people, nature, and the divine
• Tri Parisuda – Ethical speech, thought, and action
• Gotong Royong – Community cooperation and mutual help

The future of Bali’s property market, and in fact all business growth in Bali, depends on building bridges between expats and locals, not walls.

It really was an emotive, informative and insightful episode To watch tot:

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKHeLxyhbk2/

YouTube – clean copy library
https://www.youtube.com/live/bi1IW0fCAb8?si=28RzWHmEgwIkC23f

Who’s Helping Make It Happen?

This is where RiB & Associates – Gateway to Indonesia steps in. More than just another consulting firm, RiB specializes in business consulting in Bali, offering a critical phase of support that goes beyond market entry we call it Business Landing.

RiB provides on-the-ground activation, local integration, and sustainable partnership development to set your business integration up for success with empathy and understanding.

RiB’s services align with major regional priorities, from tourism development in Bali, social impact in Bali, and sustainability Bali to networking in Bali and hosting influential talk show events in Bali.

A Golden Nugget for Savvy Investors

Real estate analyst Christian Reinaldo Kurniawan shared this gem during the talk:

“The properties that outperform financially over time are those built in harmony with Bali eco-tourism resorts, sustainable developments, and those that incorporate Balinese design authentically.”

That’s right. The best returns are coming not from cookie-cutter villas, but from those projects that integrate Bali’s soul into their structure. Think Ulaman Eco Resort a shining example of sustainability and success.

So, if you’re thinking about investing in Bali, don’t just ask what you can get out of it. Ask what you can contribute and how your investment can become a win-win partnership with the people and land that make Bali so magical.

Final Thought: A Call to Action

Bali is not just a destination it’s a living culture. Whether you’re here for business, investment, or lifestyle, your presence comes with a responsibility.

Let’s not let business growth come at the cost of Bali’s soul.