Pandara Prima - The investment controversy in Bitera Traditional Village, Gianyar District, has once again come under scrutiny. Local investor Dewa Ketut Sar is questioning the termination of a previously discussed and prepared business. He noted that everything from land and capital to documentation and even the business concept had been carefully considered, but the business journey has encountered obstacles that have further complicated the situation.
Investing in Bali offers truly attractive opportunities, ranging from property and villas to tourism and creative businesses. However, don't focus solely on profit. Legalities, permits, land conditions, environmental regulations, communication with the community, and customary regulations must also be considered to prevent your business from becoming a long-running.
The investment plan reportedly stemmed from an invitation from a village official in Bitera Traditional Village. Through his attorney, I Wayan Sudiarta, the investor stated that he was not the one who independently searched for the location. Here's how the investment plan began:
1. Business Offers Begin to Be Discussed
Prajuru reportedly invited investors several times to discuss plans for a central parking lot and a small and medium enterprise (UMKM) facility under the name Batan Buah. Meetings were also held with the Bitera Traditional Village Head and local community representatives.
Investors are then instructed to prepare several documents, including environmental recommendations and a request for a retribution or punia agreement. Following this process, investors lease approximately twenty-five acres of private land.
2. Land Preparation Requires Additional Capital
The steep land conditions mean that investors have to pay additional costs for filling, embankment, and leveling. This section teaches us that property investment isn't just about location. Land conditions must also be checked from the outset to prevent sudden construction costs from skyrocketing.
After approximately one and a half months of work, the Bitera Traditional Village halted construction activities. The suspension was reportedly due to concerns that the project could impact the livelihoods of traders at the Bitera Traditional Village Market:
1. Business Concepts Undergo Changes
The initial plan was later changed to a theme park, public entertainment, and amusement rides business. The investor stated that he had already obtained a Business Identification Number through the Online Single Submission system and requested a review from the Gianyar Regency Tourism Office.
However, after the business permit application was submitted, activities were halted again. The investor stated that the suspension was related to the obligation to comply with an agreement deemed beyond the authority of the traditional village.
2. Licensing is a concern
This situation has led investors to question the basis for the business termination. According to them, the permit documents had been prepared according to the business's needs. Legality is crucial in investment. However, communication with relevant parties is also essential from the outset, especially when the business is located in an area with strong customary and social regulations.
Investors claimed they had never been given the opportunity to directly explain their businesses and licensing documents in the forum. This forum could be a place to discuss issues openly:
1. Paruman's Request Said to Have Not Been Followed Up
Several members of the Bitera Traditional Village Council (Sabha Desa Adat) reportedly requested that the village head invite investors to a meeting. The goal was for investors to explain the type of business they operate, the permits they hold, and the contributions they will make to the traditional village. However, the request reportedly has not been followed up as expected.
2. Investors Want Clear Explanations
Investors stated they simply want clear explanations and fair treatment. If there are specific rules or requirements, they said they are willing to comply as long as they are communicated transparently. This demonstrates that communication is crucial for maintaining relationships between investors and their communities.
This controversy serves as a reminder that investing in Bali isn't just about capital and a strategic location. Many other details must be prepared before a project can truly get off the ground, such as:
1. Documents Must Be Checked Carefully
Land status, business permits, building permits, environmental conditions, types of activities, and local regulations must be understood from the outset. Thorough preparation can help reduce the risk of problems once the project is underway.
For those of you planning an investment, Pandara Prima can be your partner, helping you through the entire process from start to finish. This Bali-based company provides real estate agency services, general contractor services, building permits, business permits, and villa management.
2. Don't Miss Communication
Besides documents, communication with relevant parties should also not be underestimated. With careful planning, the investment process can be more focused and less stressful. Pandara Prima supports domestic and international investors through property search, permitting, construction, and asset management. Its services cover Denpasar, Badung, Tabanan, Gianyar, Klungkung, and Buleleng.
So, before investing too much capital, ensure all investment needs are properly prepared. With the right partner, the investment process in Bali can be smoother, safer, and more transparent.