Indonesian authorities have put a stop to the development of a tourism project associated with U.S. President Donald Trump due to water management and environmental concerns. The 3,000-hectare project, led by Trump’s Indonesian partner Hary Tanoesoedibjo, involves the Trump Organization managing hotels, golf courses, and country clubs as part of a larger $700 million development plan. Despite receiving special economic zone status in 2023, the project has faced criticism for its potential impact on the environment, particularly on Lido Lake in Gunung Gede Pangrango, a region known for its biodiversity.

The Environment Ministry highlighted issues with rainwater mismanagement causing sedimentation in Lido Lake, leading to a reduction in its size and potential ecological consequences. While the project proponents deny direct responsibility for the lake’s issues, environmentalists have applauded the government’s intervention and stressed the importance of prioritizing environmental considerations in development projects.

Gunung Gede Pangrango, home to endangered species like the Javan leopard and silvery gibbons, represents one of the few remaining virgin forests in Java. Conservationists emphasize the need to balance economic development with environmental preservation to safeguard habitats and species unique to the region. The situation underscores the broader challenge of sustainable development in Indonesia, where the push for tourism growth must be carefully managed to protect natural resources and local communities for the long term.