Conversion of Agricultural Land and Its Implications for the Existence of Subak Temples: A Study on Legal Protection Based on the Tri Hita Karana Philosophy

Abstract

The conversion of agricultural land in Denpasar City has impacted the existence of the *Subak* system, including *Subak* temples—which serve as hubs for religious, social, cultural, and customary legal activities for the Balinese people. Urban expansion, accompanied by the conversion of agricultural land into residential, commercial, and investment areas, has reduced the agricultural space that sustains *Subak* organizations and the functions of *Subak* temples. This study aims to analyze the implications of agricultural land conversion on the existence of *Subak* temples in Denpasar City and to identify the protection measures needed to ensure their sustainability. The study employs an empirical legal method with a qualitative approach, utilizing field observations, in-depth interviews, and document analysis regarding *Subak Intaran* and *Subak Renon* in Denpasar City. The findings indicate that agricultural land conversion has led to a reduction in rice field acreage, a shrinking economic base for *Subak* organizations, and increased threats to the continued religious function of *Subak* temples. While *Subak Intaran* retains opportunities for preservation through agrotourism development and farmer incentives, *Subak Renon* has experienced significant land loss due to urban development pressures. The study also reveals that existing customary regulations (*awig-awig*) have not been fully effective in controlling land conversion; therefore, synergy is required among the local government, customary villages (*desa adat*), *Subak* organizations, and the community to strengthen the protection of *Subak* temples as an integral part of the *Subak* ecosystem and the *Tri Hita Karana* values.