The success of Indonesia’s WHOOSH Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail line has spurred the government to expand the project, with ambitious plans now set to connect Jakarta and Surabaya. President Prabowo Subianto, who recently assumed office, has taken a leading role in overseeing this extension, with the Ministry of Transportation providing fresh updates on the project’s progress and current feasibility studies.
Deputy Minister of Transportation Suntana announced that, while plans for the Jakarta-Surabaya high-speed rail are underway, the project remains in the assessment phase.
“We are still reviewing various aspects. Each project requires a thorough feasibility study, which helps evaluate the government’s budget needs and public benefits,” Suntana stated on November 14, 2024.
According to him, factors like public convenience and cost-efficiency are guiding considerations as the government determines whether to proceed with this large-scale infrastructure initiative.
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For now, officials are analyzing the project’s impact on the national budget and broader societal interests, Suntana emphasized. “We want this project to be practical and beneficial—an affordable, comfortable transportation solution for everyone,” he added.
CEO of PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC), Dwiyana Slamet Riyadi, noted that updates on the project had been submitted to government officials under the previous administration of President Joko Widodo.
During discussions with government officials, KCIC highlighted ongoing work on the feasibility study and laid out future needs, including collaboration with international partners like China.
Dwiyana stated, “There have been talks with Chinese representatives, particularly on safety standards, where their expertise is valuable.”
Further insights from Dwiyana revealed KCIC’s efforts to secure governmental support for infrastructure elements, such as access roads essential for the new line’s operation.
However, despite these preliminary discussions, Dwiyana confirmed that specific budget estimates for the Jakarta-Surabaya segment have not yet been finalized. He also clarified that no formal agreements have been reached with international partners, leaving open the possibility of working with firms from either China or Japan.
As Indonesia envisions a high-speed network connecting its major cities, the Jakarta-Surabaya project promises to reshape the nation’s transportation landscape, linking two of its most vital hubs with unprecedented speed and convenience. However, careful planning and international cooperation remain at the heart of the journey ahead.
