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Prabowo Voices Concern Over High-Speed Rail's Impact on Smaller Cities
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto expressed concern that the development of high-speed rail networks might sideline smaller cities. He emphasized service to all citizens and highlighted the role of railways as a tool for economic democratization.
President Joko Widodo has highlighted the dilemma of developing high-speed rail, which connects major cities, while potentially marginalizing smaller towns. He stressed that railways must serve all citizens without exception. "Sometimes there is a dilemma, wanting high-speed trains, but then small cities are not served. Yes, we are pursuing modernization, we are pursuing technology, but remember that technology and all facilities are to serve the people. This is a message I truly entrust to Kereta Api Indonesia," said Prabowo at Semarang Tawang Station, Central Java, on Thursday (30/7). Prabowo mentioned that in many countries, railways are considered a public service, not solely driven by profit. According to him, public railway transportation is an important instrument for growing the Indonesian people's economy. "Railways are an instrument for the people's economy. Railways are truly an instrument of economic democratization," he stated. He said that railways bring broad benefits to the community, especially those with low incomes. Railways have a significant role as an economical logistics instrument. Prabowo conveyed that after this, the government will work on the Trans-Sumatra Railway. "After Trans-Sumatra, then Trans-Kalimantan if possible, we will start together," he said.
Original source
CNN Indonesia