Save Subak Movement

This comparison between Canggu in 2013 and Canggu in 2025 highlights the rapid transformation of the landscape over the last decade. Once dominated by rice paddies and agriculture, much of Canggu has been converted into urban and tourism-oriented development, reflecting a broader trend across Bali where productive farmland is shrinking. Data from Bali shows that rice field areas on the island decreased by around 6,500 hectares between 2019 and 2024 due to land conversion for housing, villas, and commercial use—averaging over 1.5% loss per year. 

The transformation seen in Ubud reflects broader trends across the island, where tourism, housing, and commercial projects continue to replace once-productive rice paddies. This visual contrast underscores the urgency of efforts like Save Subak to protect remaining rice fields, sustain farming livelihoods, and preserve Bali’s living agricultural heritage for future generations.