KAI Commuter, Indonesia’s leading commuter rail operator, has recently welcomed a fleet expansion, introducing 12 new train cars manufactured by CCRC Qingdao Sifang. This strategic investment aims to bolster capacity and enhance the overall commuting experience for passengers in the Greater Jakarta or Jabodetabek area.
According to Joni Martinus, VP Corporate Secretary of KAI Commuter, the new trains underwent rigorous factory acceptance testing before embarking on their journey to Indonesia. “The arrival of these new trains is perfectly aligned with our planned schedule,and we anticipate they will substantially optimize the mobility of our commuter line users,” Martinus stated in a press release issued on Friday,January 31,2025.
Upon reaching Indonesian shores, the trains will undergo complete dynamic testing to ensure seamless functionality and passenger safety. This meticulous process adheres to Transportation Ministerial Regulation No. 49 of 2023, mandating certification by the Directorate General of Railways of the Ministry of Transportation. “We meticulously conduct this certification process to guarantee that all safety and operational standards are met. These new commuter trains are poised to effectively cater to the rising demand for reliable public transportation,” emphasized Martinus.
KAI Commuter recognizes the crucial role public transportation plays in supporting local economies. The expansion reflects their commitment to providing a convenient, safe, and affordable mode of transportation for everyone. Martinus highlighted the surging popularity of the commuter line, noting a substantial increase in ridership during the 2024/2025 Christmas and New year holiday period, with over 1,275,209 passengers utilizing the service. This surge underscores the commuter line’s growing meaning as a preferred transportation choice.
“We remain dedicated to continuously enhancing our services to ensure the commuter line remains a reliable and accessible transportation option for all. The procurement and dynamic testing of these new trains are progressing smoothly, ensuring a seamless transition into service,” martinus concluded, expressing gratitude to the government and all stakeholders for their unwavering support in facilitating this crucial upgrade to jabodetabek’s urban transportation network.
How do these new trains compare to the existing fleet in terms of capacity, comfort, and technology?
KAI Commuter Expands Fleet, Enhancing Jabodetabek Commuter Experience
Indonesia’s leading commuter rail operator, KAI Commuter, recently welcomed a meaningful boost to its fleet with the arrival of 12 new train cars, manufactured by CCRC Qingdao Sifang. This strategic investment marks a clear commitment to enhancing passenger capacity and overall commuting experience within the bustling Jabodetabek area.
An Interview with Joni Martinus, VP Corporate Secretary of KAI Commuter
Archyde: Joni, thank you for taking the time to speak with us about this exciting expansion. Can you elaborate on the significance of these new train cars for KAI Commuter and its passengers?
Joni Martinus: It’s our pleasure! The arrival of these 12 new train cars is a major milestone for KAI Commuter. They represent a significant investment in our infrastructure and a tangible commitment to improving the commuter experience for the people of Jabodetabek. We expect these new trains to greatly enhance our capacity, allowing us to serve more passengers efficiently and comfortably.
Archyde: Can you walk us through the process these new trains underwent before arriving in Indonesia?
Joni Martinus: Absolutely. The new trains underwent rigorous factory acceptance testing by CCRC Qingdao Sifang before setting sail for Indonesia. This ensured that they met the highest international quality and safety standards. On arriving in Indonesia, they will undergo a complete dynamic testing process in accordance with Transportation Ministerial Regulation No. 49 of 2023. This involves stringent safety and operational assessments conducted by the Directorate General of Railways of the Ministry of Transportation. Our aim is to guarantee that these trains are in perfect working order, ready to serve our passengers with reliability and peace of mind.
Archyde: The surge in ridership during the recent holiday season showcased the growing reliance on KAI Commuter. do you see this trend continuing as Jabodetabek’s population grows?
Joni Martinus: We absolutely do. The impressive ridership numbers we saw during the 2024/2025 Christmas and New Year holiday period – over 1,275,209 passengers in total – clearly demonstrate the increasing importance of reliable and accessible public transportation in Jabodetabek. We’re committed to meeting this growing demand and investing in our services to ensure that KAI Commuter remains the preferred choice for commuters. That’s why these new trains are so crucial to our future.
Archyde: Beyond expanding capacity, what other improvements are in the pipeline for KAI Commuter?
Joni Martinus: We’re constantly striving to enhance the commuter experience. We are prioritizing comfort, convenience, and safety in all our initiatives. This includes exploring upgrades to station infrastructure, digital ticketing options, and real-time facts systems. Our goal is to make commuting by train an enjoyable and seamless experience for every passenger.
Archyde: What message would you like to send to the passengers of Jabodetabek who rely on KAI Commuter?
Joni Martinus: We are deeply committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient transportation solutions for the people of Jabodetabek. These new trains are a testament to that commitment. We encourage everyone to experience the difference these upgrades will make to thier commutes. We believe in a future where public transportation is the backbone of a thriving and sustainable urban environment.
