Denpasar, PancarPOS | Amid the ongoing developments surrounding the Kura Kura Bali SEZ, one form of

collaboration has quietly persisted with remarkable consistency: the relationship between Serangan traditional Village (Desa Adat Serangan) and the developer, PT Bali Turtle Island Developement (BTID).

The two parties have maintained communication that goes beyond formalities—it is more like family.

There is a constant, open dialogue, even if it’s not always visible to the public eye. In every customary, cultural, religious, and environmental activity, even in the planning processes of the area, local community involvement is not only accommodated—it is an integral part of the development foundation of Kura Kura Bali.

"Open communication must always be maintained and nurtured together. Not everything needs to be announced as long as there is trust and goodwill," said Jro Ketut Sudiarsa, the Priest (Mangku) of Pura Patpayung.

Jro Ketut Sudiarsa added that he will continue to support the future development of Kura Kura Bali SEZ,

especially to ensure the smooth progression of the project. "May Ida Betara Dalem Pat Payung grant guidance, so that what BTID aspires to achieve can proceed without obstacles. Rahayu," he said.On the other hand, BTID also seem to understand that building a living space involves more than just infrastructure—it also means maintaining good relationships and harmony with all parties living on Serangan Island.

In an environment often coloured by external opinions, this kind of collaboration proves that development in harmony with local culture and the community is not only possible but is already happening—quietly and steadily. A similar sentiment was expressed by the Bendesa Adat (traditional village head) of Serangan Traditional Village, I Nyoman Gede Pariatha. He said that anyone on the path toward improvement will inevitably face challenges.

Both personally and as a citizen, he believes the relationship with all stakeholders, including investors—not just BTID—has been harmonious. "My belief as Bendesa Adat is to maintain harmony with everyone. We have a moral responsibility to maintain harmony with God, fellow humans, and the environment," he said. He added that the relationship between Serangan residents and BTID has been positive. Whatever issues arise are always thoroughly discussed and resolved through communication among all parties involved. "The Kura Kura Bali area is part of our traditional village territory, so harmony must be preserved from every aspect. This area was once a postponed dream—we fully support its realization. The investment here must bring prosperity to the people of Serangan and the surrounding communities," he said. Regarding the various dynamics over the years, both internal and external, Bendesa Gede Pariatha noted that differences of opinion are only natural. "It means our relationship with BTID is just fine. There will always be ups and downs—just like in a marriage. It’s natural in any ongoing relationship," he said.

He shared stories of harmonious communication that resulted in meaningful contributions from BTID to the Serangan Traditional Village. In accordance with a 1998 agreement, BTID was obliged to hand over 6.5 hectares of land to the community. In reality, BTID delivered 7.3 hectares—not including public roads and other facilities. In addition, BTID has provided 4 hectares of parking space for the Galungan and Kuningan religious celebrations at Pura Sakenan every year.

One thing the people of Serangan will never forget is that BTID did not lay off a single Serangan employee during the COVID-19 pandemic. While other companies were cutting staff en masse, BTID did not follow suit.

"The fact that during the COVID-19 crisis, Serangan residents who are working at BTID, were not laid off—that’s very rare. It meant there was still economic activity on the island; the fish caught by local fishermen could stillbe bought by fellow Serangan residents. Even though many lost jobs elsewhere, those who worked here continued to receive their salaries," he explained.

Serangan Village Head, Ni Wayan Sukanami, also stated that the relationship between Serangan residents and BTID remains harmonious. The community’s needs are always addressed and communicated well with BTID. “It’s important to remember that in the past, when we prayed at Pura Sakenan in Serangan, we had to ride a jukung (traditional boat), and if the tide was low, we had to walk. After the land reclamation by BTID in 1998, a connecting bridge was built—just like the one we have today,” said Ni Wayan Sukanami. She emphasized that BTID’s contributions to both Serangan Village and the Serangan Traditional Village have been great over the years.

Source:

https://pancarpos.com/25/04/2025/warga-serangan-dan-btid-kolaborasi-yang-tak-banyak-bicara-ke-publik-tapi-terus-bekerja/#google_vignette