DPR: KAI's Investment In Jakarta-Bandung Fast Train And LRT Is A Business Breakthrough

Photo: Doc. Antara

JAKARTA - Deputy Chairman of Commission VI DPR RI Aria Bima considers that PT Kereta Api Indonesia's (KAI) investment in the Jakarta-Bandung Fast Train (KCJB) and Light Rapid Transit Jakarta Bogor Depok Bekasi (LRT Jabodebek) projects is a business breakthrough.

He did not deny that the investment would have an impact on the company's financial health, but this could be the first step to find new business patterns.

"This is a breakthrough step, indeed, at first it is unhealthy, but we will start with a new model, a new way. How can rail infrastructure also involve the operator of the train itself, namely KAI," said Aria in his statement in Jakarta, as quoted from Antara, Thursday 9 February.

PT KAI's involvement in the Jabodebek KCJB and LRT projects is the first time the company has invested in the development of railway infrastructure.

Aria said that if KAI is able to show performance in its new role, it is highly likely that the company will support infrastructure projects in other areas, especially those related to assets owned by KAI.

"If that becomes a good role model, we will continue it in several infrastructures in other areas, especially, how to manage, and increase KAI's assets so that they can become a resource to strengthen its finances for investment," he said.

Previously, the Special Staff (Stafsus) of the Minister of SOEs Arya Sinulingga revealed that SOEs continued to work to accelerate the completion of the high-speed train project so that it could operate in the middle of this year.

He said the completion of the high-speed train would continue according to the schedule or timeline.

Regarding the LRT, Arya said the Jabodebek Light Rail Transit (LRT) train would be operated in mid-2023. The operation of the LRT train is likely to coincide with the operation of the Jakarta - Bandung fast train.