Challenges to the Conservation of Subak System as World Cultural Heritage in Bali

Abstract: Subak in Bali is believed to have been existing from earlier than the ninth century. Throughout this long period, Subak has been successfully utilized water resources for irrigation. Subak has been recognized as world cultural heritage by UNESCO since 2012. Currently, however, the sustainability of the system and its existence in the future is a big concern. This research is a literature review that aims to identify the challenges and provide option of solutions to sustain the Subak. The study showed that some operational and maintenance aspects of Subak are alarming, such as some network deterioration, limited availability of maintenance facilities either from government or farmers. Despite this condition, religious tradition of Subak is still carried out, although the processions vary from one Subak to another. There are several challenges in regards to Subak conservation: (1) reduction of the Subak area, resulting in declining income to support a decent life; (2) deterioration of quality and quantity of water resources; (3) the age of farmers is above 40 years with a heavy financial burden; (4) there are no clear external regulations to support Subak conservations. This study suggests several strategic steps in keeping the ustainability of Subak. The strategic steps include: refunctioning government officials; providing government support to reduce cost levied to farmers; facilitating collaborations between farmers and other stakeholders; promoting alternative commodities which have a higher financial value; preventing and repairing damages of upstream areas; controlling pollution; forming a coordination board at a provincial, regency and river basin level; building the Subak information systems; providing supervising mechanism, and encouraging academics and students to participate in an effort to preserve Subak itself. Key words: Subak in Bali, world cultural heritage, conservation, challenges, strategic steps.