(12/5/2011)
According to the three traditional village surrounding Benoa, promises made to them by the Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC) in connection with the controversial Beach World Club (BWC) in Nusa Dua remain unfulfilled.
According to NusaBali, the villages of Bualu, Peminge and Kampial are seeking redress on Rp. 200 million (US$22,200) in contributions and a number of other non-monetary commitments made to local residents 10 months ago.
In response, the management of the BTDC, who control the massive Nusa Dua tourism complex, point to Rp. 114 million paid in 2011 as contributions in support of initiatives proposed by the villages. The villagers, however, insist that the promised Rp. 200 million to appease alleged violations committed by the Beach World Club must be paid in addition to ongoing corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributions from the BTDC.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BTDC and the surrounding villages was used to appease wide-ranging protests over the construction of the Beach World Club. Local villagers protested the building of the facility that violates set back requirements from the high-water mark and, according to the villagers, impedes their access to public beach areas once used for recreation and religious purposes. The MOU provided for the Rp. 200 million payments, creation of a space for local traders to operate their businesses and employment opportunities at BTDC for local residents.
The Beach World Club has received three written warnings from the Badung regency, which, in principle, clear the way for the demolition of the facility. It remains uncertain, however, if the paid acquiescence of the villagers can adequately resolve the Beach World Club’s infringement of regional and provincial zoning laws.
A local community leader, Wayan Lemes, has demanded that the CEO of BTDC meet directly with the affected villages before mid-December. With failure to meet that deadline, warned Lemes, BTDC chould expect a sterner response from local residents.
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[The People Have Their Say]
[Which Rule Applies]
[The Battle on the Beach]
[Beach World Complex Headed for a Showdown?]
[In Bali, The Postman Rings Thrice]
[Forcing the Hand of Law Enforcement]
[Governor to Move Against Zoning Violators]
[Drawing Lines in the Sands of Nusa Dua]
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