The Indonesian government is moving swiftly to advance railway electrification across the country, marking a major push toward a more efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable national transportation system. The initiative highlights Indonesia’s determination to transform its railway network into a modern, low-emission mode of transport that aligns with global environmental goals.
Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi reaffirmed this commitment during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between state electricity company PLN and Kereta Api Indonesia in Jakarta on Monday, October 20, 2025. He emphasized that electrification represents a strategic step to boost the competitiveness of Indonesia’s transport sector.
“In many developed countries, rail transport is highly popular among the public. Besides being affordable, it can carry a large number of passengers and goods. With electrification, this cheap, large-scale, and structured mode of transport will become even more appealing,” he said.
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The Ministry of Transportation aims to begin electrification in three main corridors: the Padalarang–Cicalengka route, the Cikarang–Cikampek route, and the signal system upgrade for the KRL Commuter Line connecting to Rangkasbitung. According to Minister Dudy, these routes were chosen as priorities due to their significant potential to improve operational efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and cut carbon emissions.
Beyond environmental benefits, the program is also expected to strengthen the domestic railway industry ecosystem. By encouraging local production and technological collaboration, the initiative could open more opportunities for national industries to play a bigger role in transportation modernization.
Railway electrification is closely aligned with the national development direction outlined by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The effort supports two key objectives under the Asta Cita agenda: building a self-reliant, productive, and fair economy, and promoting equitable development and interregional connectivity through sustainable infrastructure. The government hopes that, in addition to energy efficiency, the program will also improve public services by delivering a transportation system that is more reliable, modern, and safe.
This electrification plan also reflects the government’s concrete contribution to achieving Indonesia’s Net Zero Emission 2060 target. With cooperation among the government, state-owned enterprises, and the private sector, Indonesia aims to accelerate the transformation toward a modern, low-emission public transportation system that can compete globally while serving the nation’s growing mobility needs.
