Another Hill Gone in Bali: Balancing Progress and Preservation at Balangan

Hi, I’m Jason, a Business Journalist at Bukit Vista, and today we’re looking into a pressing conversation from the Bali Business Review, initially raised by Jing Cho Yang. This report stems from the latest video, “Another Hill Gone in Bali 😢 | What’s Happening at Balangan?”—a documentary-style look into the current wave of development cutting through the natural landscapes of Bali. Specifically, we’re zooming in on Balangan Beach, where hills once lush with vegetation are now reduced to sprawling mounds of cleared earth. This event—while not entirely new—has ignited deeper concerns within the community about how Bali is developing, and at what environmental cost.

Development at What Cost? The Changing Topography of Balangan

Balangan Beach, known for its pristine waves and limestone cliffs, is one of South Bali’s iconic coastlines. But many visitors have been shocked recently to witness the transformation underway. Hills that once defined the topography of the area are being leveled—excavators and dump trucks working daily to clear space for future luxury projects. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s part of a broader trend in Bali’s rapidly growing real estate market. Tourist interest and foreign investment are fueling developments, particularly in scenic locations such as Balangan, Uluwatu, and Canggu. Yet with each removed hill and each new construction site, there’s a growing sense that Bali could be losing the very essence that makes it special.

Preservation vs. Progress: Striking a Sustainable Balance

The issue isn’t as simple as painting developers as villains and environmental advocates as heroes. Many locals are caught in between—the promise of economic growth brings opportunity, but also threatens a way of life rooted in harmony with nature. In the video, Jing Cho Yang explores this nuance. He emphasizes, “Development is not the enemy. The real question is whether development and preservation can coexist on this island.” His position echoes a wider call across Bali for sustainable business models that respect natural boundaries and cultural heritage. In conversations with local business owners and residents, some express concern that the current trajectory may be unsustainable. They fear that unchecked construction will not only damage ecosystems but also degrade Bali’s reputation as a paradise destination. Others highlight the positive night-light development has brought—infrastructure, jobs, and housing.

Local Voices Weigh In

• Wayan, a local tour operator: “I’ve seen this beach since childhood. It’s heartbreaking to see hills flattened. Yes, we need progress—but not at this pace.”
• Ayu, a hospitality manager: “New resorts bring more guests. But even guests are asking why the natural beauty is disappearing.”
• Jing Cho Yang (video creator): “If Bali stops being beautiful, Bali stops being Bali.”

These perspectives reflect a growing awareness that while Bali’s economic growth is important, it cannot be pursued without regard for long-term environmental and cultural impacts.

The Bigger Picture: What Future Do We Want for Bali?

What’s happening in Balangan is part of a broader discussion: Who gets to decide how Bali evolves? Can development be mindful, inclusive, and ecologically sound? Or are we repeating global mistakes, sacrificing nature for short-term gains? This is not just a local issue—it’s a global one. Destinations all over the world grapple with similar questions as they balance tourism, development, and conservation. Bali, with its unique spiritual and ecological identity, may serve as a symbol for how such challenges can be addressed thoughtfully—if the community chooses wisely.

Join the Conversation

As readers and visitors, your voice matters. How do you see the future of Bali unfolding? Should natural landscapes be protected more strictly? Can local communities benefit from development without losing identity? We invite you to watch the full video below to hear directly from creators and community members: Let’s imagine a better Bali together—one where growth is not just about more buildings, but about preserving the soul of the island for generations to come. Jason, Business Journalist at Bukit Vista