The Indonesian tourism project tied to Donald Trump, led by his business partner Hary Tanoesoedibjo, is facing issues related to water management and environmental concerns. The Lido City project involves the development of a “six-star” resort on the island of Bali and near Jakarta, with the Trump Organization managing hotels, golf courses, and country clubs for a significant investment. The projects are part of a larger development that is expected to cost billions of dollars over the span of a decade. The Indonesian government granted special economic zone status to these developments in 2023, allowing MNC Land to receive tax breaks and permits.
The Lido City project is located in Gunung Gede Pangrango, south of Jakarta, and includes a new Trump golf course that has been in operation since 2014. The project aligns with the Indonesian government’s desire to create more tourist destinations and attract visitors to the region. However, environmentalists have raised concerns about the impact of such large-scale developments on the local habitat and endangered species in the area. The Environment Ministry has highlighted issues with rainwater mismanagement at the resort, which has led to sedimentation in Lake Lido, causing the body of water to halve in size.
Gunung Gede Pangrango is home to one of the last remaining virgin tropical forests in Java, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Javan slow loris, Javan leopard, and Javan silvery gibbon. The park plays a crucial role in preserving the natural environment and wildlife in the region. The sedimentation issues in Lake Lido have been attributed to various projects in the surrounding area, not just the Lido City development. PT MNC Land has stated that they have followed environmental impact analysis criteria and have attempted to address the lake’s shallowing issue.
The government’s intervention in addressing the environmental concerns related to the Lido City project has been welcomed by environmentalists, who see it as a positive step towards ensuring that development projects prioritize environmental principles. The area around Lido City is considered a vital watershed for the Cimandiri river and plays a crucial role in maintaining the landscape of the Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park. Conservationists emphasize the importance of considering the environmental impact on communities and the ecosystem before and during the development process. The goal is to balance economic development with environmental preservation in the region for the benefit of both local residents and wildlife.
