The construction of a multi-storey development is reportedly due to be built on the site as the 2002 Bali bombings.
In December 2018, developers were granted permission by the Indonesian government to build on the site of the destroyed Sari nightclub. The decision has attracted major criticism from Australia, who suffered the highest number of casualties during the terror attack, losing 88 of its citizens.
In October 2002, radical Islamists detonated explosives outside the US Consulate and two popular nightclubs in Bali, the casualties were mostly western tourists.
Made Agus Aryawan, head of the local investment board confirmed the news, “This land belongs to an individual, it’s private property. We cannot stop the owner from using it and regulations allow him to do so,” Made said. The vacant lot at the heart of Kuta has been empty since 2002, and the permit that has been issued will be valid for 30 years.
Community leader, I Gusti Agung Made Agung, stated that a five-storey complex will be built, which will include a restaurant, offices and a monument on the top floor. “I know many Australians died, but if they wanted to build a memorial, they should have bought the lot,” he said.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has condemned the decision, labelling it as “deeply distressing”. Morrison has also promised to “solve” the issue with the Indonesian authorities.
Source: Channel News Asia
Image: The Conversation