National News - October 27, 2000

DENPASAR, Bali (JP): The island of Bali has long been known for its exotic scenery, but in the coming years it will also lure people to come to experience the spectacular view of an oceanarium.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, in cooperation with localand foreign investors, will start early next year the construction project of the giant oceanarium, dubbed the biggest in Southeast Asia, Director General for Sea Research and Exploration Indroyono Soesilo said here on Wednesday.

With a budget estimated at US$24 million, the project, called Bali Ocean World (BOW), will consist of a long glass tunnel that enables people to observe from close range species such as sharks, sea eels and electric eels.

Indroyono said the species to be displayed would come from waters off Bali and nearby areas plus other seas in the country.

The project will occupy a five-hectare plot of land in Ketewel village inSukawati district in Gianyar, some 27 kilometers east of here.

"Some 24 scientists from the Indonesian Science Institute (LIPI) will be involved as consultants on this project," Indroyono said.

"We designed it based on the concept of marine tourism and preservation. There will be pools with dolphins and sea lions, in which the visitors can interact with the creatures and even swim with them."

A special tank along with shipwrecks will be part of the sea world's excitement. The tank will allow coral reefs placed there to grow naturally,according to Indroyono.

"Visitors can also dive in to enjoy the view," he added.

The ambitious project will also cover an antarctic life habitat and a seabird exhibition area in the future.

"We hope that the project will absorb at least 250 permanent employees and also involve hundreds others, excluding scientists and other experts involved in research," Indroyono said.

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