In a surprising turn of events this November 2024, PARQ Ubud—a vibrant residential and lifestyle complex nestled just outside the heart of Ubud, Bali—has officially been shut down. Authorities reported that the business was operating without the necessary licenses and was suspected of flouting both building and environmental regulations.
A Brief History of the Closure
Despite being granted a grace period to rectify their paperwork, PARQ Ubud ultimately failed to comply, leading to its closure during the week of January 20th. The Gianyar Regency Government’s decision was enforced on a Monday, marking a significant day for both local authorities and the business community.
Insights from Local Administration
During the media briefing that accompanied the formal takeover of the property, Ketut Pasek Lanang Sadia, Assistant for General Administration of the Regional Secretary of Gianyar Regency, shared that the closure was executed based on the Decree of the Regent of Gianyar Number 285/E-09/HK/2025. This decree underscores the importance of operating within legal boundaries, a lesson that is relevant across various sectors.
Sadia told reporters, “The cessation of business operations at PARQ Ubud was carried out because it violated Article 19 paragraph 3 of Gianyar Regency Regional Regulation No. 15 of 2015 concerning Public Order.” The message was clear: local regulations are in place to protect both the community and the environment.
Enforcement Action: A Local Perspective
The closure was marked by a strong presence of officers from the Gianyar Civil Service Police Unit, with reports of tense moments as individuals were removed from the site. Sadia emphasized, “This action was in accordance with the Law and Regional Regulations of Gianyar Regency, and it followed a structured process.” This aligns with many personal experiences I have heard where businesses—of all types—found success only by respecting local laws.
A Look Back: The Investigation Timeline
The saga for PARQ Ubud began back in April 2023 when Civil Service Police Officers conducted a surprise inspection. While they initially didn’t find any violations, the uncertainty around licenses left many residents, including myself, wondering about the sustainability of such businesses. By November 2024, the permanent closure was at hand after numerous warnings.
Business Community Reactions
On January 23rd, former Deputy Governor of Bali, Cok Ace, weighed in on the situation, indicating that the shuttering of PARQ Ubud could signal a wider crackdown on foreign-owned enterprises in Bali. Reflecting on conversations with local entrepreneurs, he stressed the need for compliance: “When starting a business, one must understand the entire compliance mechanism—not just the surface registrations.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Business in Bali
As the dust settles, the Head of the Bali Tourism Office, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, emphasized the importance of transparency and adherence to local regulations. “Foreigners are welcome, as long as they comply with existing laws,” he stated, a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree with after witnessing many local businesses thrive when they respect their community.
Interestingly, while PARQ Ubud has been shuttered, some individuals have still been seen wandering the property, nurturing concerns for the future of this once-bustling hub.
In summary, PARQ Ubud’s closure serves as a pivotal case for foreign entities operating in Bali, reminding us all of the significance of abiding by local laws and regulations. It’s a lesson that most of us, whether business owners or tourists, can take to heart as we engage in this beautiful yet complex marketplace.
