Perspective from our CEO, Jing Cho Yang
I’m Jason, a business journalist at Bukit Vista, a leader in Bali property management and innovation. Our CEO, Jing Cho Yang, with over 18 years of experience in Bali’s real estate market, shares his insights on sustainable investment. Bali, known as the “Island of Gods,” offers unique opportunities that blend cultural richness with strategic location, and Jing’s deep understanding of the island’s property market is key for investors seeking long-term, responsible growth.
With Bali’s unique landscape, it’s crucial to recognize that successful investment here goes beyond financial gain. Jing believes that Tri Hita Karana, a Balinese philosophy that promotes harmony between humans, nature, and the divine, offers a guiding framework for investors. This philosophy resonates particularly well in today’s world, where investors are increasingly seeking to leave behind more than just financial footprints—they want to build legacies that reflect a positive impact on the environment, the local culture, and the spiritual fabric of the communities in which they invest.
According to Jing, those looking to invest in Bali must ask themselves critical questions:Â
- Does my investment promote harmony with the environment?
- Does it respect the island’s spiritual beliefs?
- And does it foster positive relationships with the local community?
For over 18 years, Jing has navigated the complex landscape of property investment in Bali, believing that today the Tri Hita Karana provides the essential roadmap for any investor wanting to create a lasting, meaningful impact in this investment goal.
The Importance of Sustainable Investment in Bali
Investing in Bali is not just about tapping into its booming tourism or leveraging its natural landscapes—it’s about ensuring that development aligns with the island’s cultural values and environmental needs. Bali’s unique ecosystems and rich traditions are deeply intertwined, and careless investment can lead to long-term harm. Sustainable investments here must prioritize long-term success by focusing on eco-friendly designs, local employment, and the preservation of spiritual sites.
Jing emphasizes that Tri Hita Karana—the balance between humans, nature, and the divine—provides the framework for such success. By following this guiding principle, investors ensure that their projects respect Bali’s natural environment and cultural heritage, while also fostering positive relationships with local communities. This balance not only leads to greater financial returns over time but also contributes to a sustainable future for the island.
Legacy Over Modern Investment Approaches
Many investors now seek more than just transactional and relationship advantages; they aim to leave a legacy that reflects their commitment to sustainability, culture, and the environment.  Chip Conley, a renowned American hotelier and entrepreneur, revolutionized the hospitality industry twice—first as the founder of Joie de Vivre Hospitality, one of the largest boutique hotel companies in the U.S., and later as Airbnb’s Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s success in the global travel industry. Jing Cho Yang believes that Tri Hita Karana offers a powerful framework to help investors achieve this, providing a meaningful alternative to traditional, profit-focused models.Â
The pyramid diagram, based on Chip Conley’s Investor Needs Pyramid, illustrates three essential levels of investment. At the base is Transaction Alignment, which ensures profitability and financial returns. Moving up, Relationship Alignment focuses on building trust and mutually beneficial relationships with stakeholders, particularly local communities. At the top is Legacy, where investors seek to make a lasting impact that goes beyond financial success, focusing on cultural preservation, environmental protection, and long-term contributions.
Instead of relying on purely financial approaches, Jing encourages investors to reflect on whether their projects promote harmony with nature, local customs, and spiritual values. This alignment ensures that the investment contributes positively to Bali’s future, enhancing the island’s beauty and culture.
By embracing a legacy-driven approach, investors can create projects that not only generate returns but also preserve Bali’s cultural heritage, support local communities, and protect its natural environment.
The Future of Sustainable Investment in Bali
Even until today, not all developments in Bali follow the principles of Tri Hita Karana. Some prioritize short-term profits, leading to environmental degradation and community resistance. However, Jing Cho Yang believes that the future of investment on the island must be based on these core values if it is to succeed.
Investors who follow the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana will not only see financial success but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and prosperity of Bali. Projects that honor the balance between people, nature, and spirituality are the ones that will thrive and leave a positive legacy for generations to come.
For those looking to invest in Bali, Tri Hita Karana is more than just a guiding principle—it is the key to creating meaningful, sustainable growth that honors the island’s spiritual and cultural heritage.  Let’s inspire delight in every guest and make your investment journey in Bali become a legacy.