Bali is experiencing a period of rapid growth, with new hotels, resorts, and lifestyle complexes appearing almost monthly across the island.
Canggu’s Rapid Expansion and New Development
The resort area of Canggu is currently Bali’s fastest-growing and most popular destination. A new lifestyle center, including a sizeable shopping mall, is planned for construction in the bustling Pererenan area. The project, named Canggu Hills, is being developed by PT Asia Mas Realty and will feature approximately 35 commercial units and space for 200 tenants across two stories.
Construction is already underway, with a planned opening in 2028. Canggu Hills is envisioned as a mixed-use zone, with future plans including residential properties and additional commercial spaces.
Pererenan, now a busy tourism hub, was once a small, traditional Balinese village known for surfing and attracting backpackers. Its transformation has been rapid, culminating in being named the “Best Neighbourhood in the World” by TimeOut Magazine in 2024, further accelerating its growth.
PT Asia Mas Reality describes its vision for Canggu Hills as an “integrated area” that blends natural beauty with modern comforts, creating a balanced destination for both living and business. The company’s mission focuses on developing tourist accommodations, residential zones with green spaces, sustainable practices, and support for local culture.
The Tujung Boutique Resort has publicly expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the Canggu Hills development, stating it represents “a vision of how modern life can flourish alongside nature and tradition.”
However, the rapid development has also drawn criticism, with concerns raised about cultural preservation, land conversion, and the strain on existing infrastructure. Many observers note that while developments often promise support for local culture and environmental responsibility, infrastructure improvements have not kept pace with the growth, leading to significant traffic congestion.
Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Raka Suardana highlighted the impact of land conversion on Bali’s agricultural landscape in December 2025, citing data from the BPN.
Looking Ahead
If current trends continue, further development in Canggu and other popular areas of Bali is likely. This could lead to increased economic activity and tourism revenue, but also potentially exacerbate existing infrastructure challenges and accelerate the loss of agricultural land. It is possible that local authorities will prioritize infrastructure improvements to mitigate these issues. Alternatively, continued rapid growth without adequate planning could lead to further congestion and strain on resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Canggu Hills development?
Canggu Hills is a new lifestyle center and shopping mall being developed by PT Asia Mas Realty in Pererenan, Canggu. It will include approximately 35 commercial units and space for 200 tenants, with plans for future residential and commercial expansion.
How has Canggu changed in recent years?
Canggu has transformed from a small, traditional village into a busy tourism resort in less than a decade. It was named the “Best Neighbourhood in the World” by TimeOut Magazine in 2024, which has further fueled its growth.
What are the concerns surrounding the development in Canggu?
Concerns include potential impacts on cultural preservation, land conversion, and the strain on existing infrastructure, particularly traffic congestion.
What role do you think sustainable development practices will play in shaping the future of tourism in Bali?
