Erfan Maruf, Jakarta – The planned Gilimanuk – Mengwi toll road project in Bali has failed to draw investor interest, causing repeated delays, Public Works and Housing Minister Dody Hanggodo said on Friday.

According to Dody, the proposed toll road – which would connect Bali's northern and southern regions – is considered commercially unattractive due to low traffic potential compared to other routes on the resort island.

"From what I know, not many investors are interested in the Gilimanuk – Mengwi route because traffic there isn't busy," Dody said in Jakarta. "There needs to be further discussion between local governments and investors to see whether the route can be adjusted."

Dody said the government remains open to alternative financing or partnership schemes, but a viable investment plan will depend on revising the project's design to ensure a more sustainable traffic flow and long-term profitability.

The project, valued at Rp 25.4 trillion ($1.5 billion), is designed to span 96.8 kilometers across three sections: Gilimanuk – Pekutatan (53.6 km), Pekutatan – Soka (24.3 km), and Soka – Mengwi (18.9 km).

The plan is now under renewed evaluation, with officials considering revisions to the route outlined in the original feasibility study to better align with public mobility needs and improve the project's economic viability.

The toll road, intended to ease congestion and enhance connectivity between Bali's western gateway and its southern tourism centers, has failed to attract bidders in multiple tender rounds. The most recent tender, held in December 2024, also ended without any investor interest.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/business/investors-stay-away-from-balis-gilimanuk-toll-project-minister-say