SANUR — The recent increase in fraudulent investment schemes in Bali, which has prompted enforcement actions by local authorities, has led Malekat Hukum International Law Firm to strengthen legal awareness among foreign investors through a Negotiation and Contract Masterclass.
The one-day program, held at The Meru Sanur Hotel, was attended by foreign investors and business participants from five countries—the United States, Colombia, Australia, Ukraine, and Russia—alongside local Balinese entrepreneurs. The session focused on lawful investment practices, effective negotiation strategies, and contractual compliance within Indonesia’s legal framework.
“This event is designed to bridge the East and the West, so that foreign nationals coming to Indonesia understand how to invest properly, as well as the applicable laws and regulations,” said Ni Luh Arie Ratna Sukasari, Founder of Malekat Hukum International Law Firm, in Sanur on Saturday (January 31, 2026).
She noted that a surge in negative publicity surrounding fraudulent investment cases has underscored the need for accurate legal guidance and cultural understanding.
“Recently, there has been a great deal of negative news related to fraudulent investments. We believe it is important to provide clear explanations on how to invest correctly and how to negotiate effectively, including understanding Balinese cultural aspects that are closely connected to business practices,” Sukasari said.
Sukasari, who is widely known as Sari, explained that the masterclass also addressed cultural considerations that often come as a surprise to foreign investors. These include customary and religious obligations that may affect operational costs and long-term investment planning.
“For example, in Bali there are dana punia (ceremonial donations), religious rituals, and other cultural responsibilities. These must be factored into investment budgets. Many foreign nationals own property or operate businesses here, and these aspects need to be clearly explained from the outset,” she said.
She added that Malekat Hukum International Law Firm was founded by former Professor of Business Law Prof. R.A. Retno Murni, and therefore maintains active collaboration with a network of international law firms.
“Our firm operates with an international outlook. We work closely with foreign law firms and aim to bring Indonesian legal expertise and branding to the global stage,” Sukasari added.
One of the participants, Samuel Bakara, an investor based in Darwin, Australia, with North Sumatran heritage, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to attend the program. He described the experience as a meaningful reconnection with his ancestral roots in Indonesia.
“My ancestors are calling me home. I am happy to be here—the people make my heart very happy. There is goodwill, and there is always a way forward through negotiation. We all want success, and I gained a great deal from today,” Bakara said.
Bakara shared plans to return to Medan to explore business opportunities and community-based initiatives in his ancestral homeland. He also praised the masterclass for providing practical solutions and clarity on investing in Indonesia.
“Perhaps I will go to Medan and open an office or work on community projects. Today feels like one of the steps toward understanding my future path,” he said.
Meanwhile, Gareth Benson, an international lawyer consulting with Malekat Hukum International Law Firm, described the masterclass as a platform that combines business opportunity with culturally grounded negotiation approaches and open communication.
“We can build strong bridges—but more importantly, bridges built on respect. With this strong foundation, we can move between two worlds in a way that benefits all, creating long-term investment partnerships between East and West,” Benson said.
According to Benson, initiatives that bring together foreign and Indonesian stakeholders play a vital role in fostering cooperation and sustainable collaboration. He expressed hope that such efforts would contribute to the welfare of the Balinese community and Indonesia more broadly.
“The most important thing is creating meaningful agreements so that local communities can prosper. Malekat Hukum International Law Firm acts as a true bridge to broader understanding. Through cultural awareness, respectful negotiation, and open communication, we can build bridges to realize global opportunities here in Indonesia,” he concluded.***
