Over the last decade, President Joko Widodo’s administration has focused intensely on infrastructure development, with transportation taking center stage. One of the most notable achievements has been the expansion of Indonesia’s railway network. A total of 1,731 kilometers of railway lines have been constructed or reactivated across 55 locations, marking a significant advancement in the country’s connectivity.
Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi shared these achievements during an announcement on Sunday, September 29, 2024. “In the past 10 years, the Ministry of Transportation has successfully completed various railway infrastructure projects. We’ve built 1,731 kilometers of new tracks, double tracks, and reactivated dormant lines throughout Indonesia,” Budi Karya noted.
Alongside the new constructions and reactivations, the Ministry has also undertaken improvements and maintenance across 1,900 kilometers of railway lines in 25 areas, upgrading the quality and safety of train travel in these regions. Additionally, 522 kilometers of railway tracks have been electrified, further enhancing the efficiency of the system.
The Indonesian government has demonstrated its dedication to this sector by allocating IDR 223.87 trillion between 2015 and 2024 for the development and rehabilitation of railway infrastructure. On top of that, the government has provided IDR 26.03 trillion in public service obligations (PSO) to PT Kereta Api Indonesia during the same period to support public rail services.
“This shows the government’s strong commitment to improving railway connectivity and accessibility across Indonesia,” added Budi Karya.
Innovation in transportation technology is also a key priority for the administration. The minister emphasized the ongoing efforts to modernize and develop Indonesia’s railway services through technological advancements. Notable among these innovations are the three mass rapid transportation systems now operational: Jakarta MRT, Jabodebek LRT, and the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail.
“By continuing to innovate in technology and improve services, we aim to meet public expectations and enhance the country’s transportation image,” Budi Karya stated.
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One highlight of Indonesia’s recent transport success is the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway, popularly known as “Whoosh.” According to Budi Karya, this high-speed train has become an international sensation. The name “Whoosh” is an acronym for “Waktu Hemat, Operasi Optimal, Sistem Handal,” which translates to “Time-Saving, Optimal Operation, Reliable System.”
The term “Whoosh” mimics the sound of a speeding train, a fitting tribute to the rapid transportation it provides. The name emerged from a design competition, judged by a team led by Triawan Munaf, with support from key government figures, including Minister of State Secretary Pratikno, Minister of State-Owned Enterprises Erick Thohir, and Minister Budi Karya himself.
As Indonesia continues to modernize its railway system, these initiatives reflect the government’s broader vision of improving transportation, enhancing connectivity, and supporting economic growth nationwide.
