TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) Erick Thohir believes the Jakarta - Bandung high-speed railway could play a significant role in serving people who wish to travel average and long distances.

He then gave an example of several high-speed railways in developed countries aimed at serving those two-distance trips. "Indeed it has been implemented everywhere, whether in Japan or China, the high-speed railways are meant for average and long distance," said Erick in a press conference in Jakarta, Monday, January 2, 2023.

As Indonesia's economic growth continues to accelerate, according to Erick, rail transportation will become more feasible and efficient than private vehicles.

He also said that his party was ready to optimize the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railways (KCJB) as the first high-speed train in Indonesia. The project, which is now included in the list of national strategic projects, is expected to have a positive impact not only on the transportation sector but also on the economy.

Erick said that this high-speed railway project would not only become an icon of cooperation between the Government of Indonesia and the Chinese Government but also further integrate modes of transportation in Jakarta and Bandung.

KCJB is also mentioned to make Indonesia the country with the first high-speed rail service in Southeast Asia. It also said the railway would become an alternative mode of mass transportation for people who want to travel quickly, comfortably and safely.

Furthermore, Erick Thohir said this project would provide socio-economic and environmental impacts in the form of job creation, both during project construction and after the operation, reducing congestion, emissions, and use of fuel.

In addition, there would be savings in travel time; potential development of new areas/economic growth around the station, increased connectivity and ease of use and business opportunities.

According to Erick Thohir, the business opportunities that will arise from this high-speed railway project are especially for MSMEs, because there will be a multiplier effect and community economic growth.

ANTARA | IMAJI LASAHIDO (INTERN)

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