The idea of traveling between Jakarta and Surabaya in only three hours by train is once again being discussed. The possibility has emerged as plans to extend the Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Railway, known as Whoosh, toward Surabaya return to the spotlight.
If the project moves forward, the high-speed rail line could connect Jakarta and Surabaya in a much shorter time than current transportation options. However, the government says there are still important issues that must be resolved before the expansion can begin.
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) stated that the government is prioritizing the settlement of debt related to the Indonesia–China High-Speed Rail project. According to him, the issue must be addressed before any serious plans are made to extend the railway network to Surabaya.
He explained that the effort is currently being carried out alongside an initial financial restructuring process at PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC). The matter has also been discussed with several key officials, including Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani, and other relevant stakeholders.
“Why is this important? Because before we develop a more serious roadmap to extend or develop the Jakarta–Surabaya line, which could even reach Banyuwangi as directed by President Prabowo Subianto, we should first ensure that the KCJB (Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Railway) is fully resolved. That means the solution has been properly determined. After that, we can move on to the next stage of development,” AHY said at the Presidential Staff Office on Tuesday (11/3/2026).
While the financial matters are being addressed, discussions about extending the high-speed rail corridor are continuing. AHY said the government is working with the Ministry of Transportation and the state railway company KAI to study how the expansion could provide the greatest benefit to the public.
One of the key considerations is the length of the railway track. According to AHY, a longer route would allow the train to operate more efficiently at its maximum speed.
“Just imagine traveling at 350 km per hour. If the distance is 600 to 800 kilometers, the speed will really be felt. The benefits will be much more noticeable compared to a shorter distance or track,” AHY said.
He explained that on shorter routes, trains often cannot maintain peak speed for long because they must begin slowing down as they approach the next station.
“Because once the train reaches its peak speed, it must slow down again as it prepares to stop at the next station,” he added.
For AHY, extending Whoosh to Surabaya could create significant changes in Indonesia’s transportation landscape. He believes the project could bring new momentum for regional development.
“If Jakarta to Surabaya can be reached in about three hours by train, I believe this will reshape the map of development and also create new economic growth along the corridor,” AHY explained.
