The rise of illegal foreign workers in Bali, particularly in the architecture and construction sectors, has sparked concern among local professionals.
Chairman of the Indonesian Institute of Architects (IAI) Bali, I Wayan Agus Novi Dharmawan, emphasized how this unfair competition is affecting both local architects and property developers.
According to the Bali chapter of the IAI, only four foreign architectural firms currently hold valid licenses. The rest, Agus stated, are operating without proper authorization.
Bali’s once-thriving architectural scene is now facing a serious threat—not from local competitors, but from the influx of foreign architects working illegally without the required permits.
“For instance, there’s a Russian consultant openly advertising in Russian on Instagram. Clearly, they’re not targeting locals, but fellow nationals who live here. These aren’t ordinary tourists—they’re taking over our jobs,” he emphasized, as quoted by radarbuleleng.com.
It’s not just architectural design services under threat. These unlicensed foreign workers are also entering other sectors like construction materials and even concrete block sales.
Agus noted that this trend began to surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many of the individuals reportedly originating from countries commonly referred to as “plate R” nations.
Foreign Architects Undermine Balinese Design
Beyond economic concerns, there is a deeper cultural impact. The surge of foreign-designed buildings is diluting the island’s traditional architectural identity.
“Many new structures now feature European styles—cubic shapes with full-glass walls. If you take a photo, you wouldn’t even know it’s Bali. Our local identity is being erased,” Agus said critically.
Bali has strict architectural regulations under Regional Regulation (Perda) No. 5 of 2005, which mandates the use of Balinese architectural elements. This regulation also governs local licensing for architects working in line with Balinese cultural values.
“Our laws are strong, but these foreign designers either don’t understand or deliberately ignore them. We need strict enforcement from authorities,” Agus added.
Bali Architects Speak Out Against Illegal Foreign Architects
Speaking to beritabali.com in Denpasar on April 21, 2025, Agus reiterated the urgent need for action. He suspects that many of these foreign architects are not merely tourists, but are setting up operations under the guise of foreign direct investment (PMA).
“Some of our local peers still have jobs, but now they’re forced to compete with unlicensed foreign architects. These people claim to be professionals, yet there’s no proof of their qualifications,” he explained.
While only four foreign architectural consultants are officially registered with the Manpower Office, the actual number operating in Bali is believed to be much higher and largely unmonitored. Platforms like Instagram have become prime tools for these illegal firms to attract international clients.
IAI Bali, along with Indonesia’s Architect Council’s Oversight Committee, has begun filing complaints and sending formal warnings to suspected illegal practitioners. Agus urged the local government to take decisive legal action and verify the legality of all foreign businesses operating in the architectural sector.
“Bali’s architectural identity is strong and unique. We cannot let it disappear due to our negligence,” he concluded.
Source: radarbuleleng.com beritabali.com
Photo Credit: Lucas Tran (pexels.com)
