Trump's planned Bali hotel risks angering the gods, and the locals

Jakarta

ON THE Indonesian resort island of Bali, building height is measured by coconut trees. Anything taller could anger the gods whom the Hindu locals believe inhabit the island. So plans to renovate a decades old hotel overlooking a 16th century temple and turn it into a bigger six-star resort, complete with a tower and upgraded golf course, are causing some anxiety.

It will be known as the Trump International Hotel and Tower Bali. Donald Trump's company has paired with an Indonesian tycoon to build what they say will be the largest resort on the island. With construction targeted to start in early 2018, it risks making the new US president a lightning rod for local ire over the project even as he seeks to divorce himself from his sprawling business empire.