Singaraja City Revitalization Boasts Economy, Local Satay Vendor Sees Surge

The ongoing development of the Singaraja zero point area in Bali has transformed the urban landscape into a bustling public space, bringing major financial relief to local street vendors. Sumiati, a 54-year-old satay vendor who has lived in Bali for 25 years, noted that her business hours have extended from a quiet 9:00 PM closure to serving customers until 2:00 AM.

Driven by a steady influx of evening visitors, tourists, and motorcycle touring clubs from regions like Ubud and Karangasem, customer volume at her modest stall has doubled. "There is real progress now, as crowds stay late into the night and give us a chance to increase our daily sales," said Sumiati when interviewed at her stall on Sunday (2/8/2026).

Capitalizing on the renewed foot traffic, she has expanded her menu to include traditional rice packets and cold beverages alongside her signature grilled meat skewers. Despite the growing demand and popularity of the revitalized city square, she continues to offer affordable portions ranging from ten to twenty thousand rupiah.

Sumiati previously spent decades working as a mobile vendor in Surabaya before relocating to sell food door-to-door across various neighborhoods in Singaraja after marrying a local resident. Settling permanently near the newly redesigned public square two years ago has finally provided her small family business with a stable and lucrative foundation.

The vendor operates her stall daily until inventory completely runs out, securing reliable earnings that comfortably support her household and meet daily financial needs without raising food prices.