Prabowo Signals Major Trans-Sumatra Railway Project

President Prabowo Subianto has signaled a significant push for railway infrastructure development in Indonesia, alluding to a major project: the Trans-Sumatra Railway. The mention came during the inauguration of the revitalization of the Semarang Tawang Station, a cultural heritage site in Semarang. Addressing officials from Indonesian Railways (KAI) and government representatives, President Prabowo emphasized the need for "big infrastructure" for a "big country" like Indonesia. He urged KAI to "develop rapidly, expand widely, and expand greatly." He then specifically referred to the Trans-Sumatra Railway, envisioning a line stretching from Bandar Lampung in the south, passing through points like Merak and Bakauheni, to the northernmost part of the island. "Can KAI? Can, Minister of Transportation? We give him a heavy task," President Prabowo stated, questioning the feasibility of the ambitious plan and even opening the possibility for simultaneous commencement of work. This statement follows Prabowo's earlier emphasis on the importance of increased investment in the railway sector and the need to improve safety at thousands of train crossings. He articulated that trains serve as "economic instruments for the people," crucial not only for mobility but also for logistics, public services, and driving economic growth. Prabowo also stressed that railway development should not solely focus on modernization, but must continue to serve low-income populations and small towns. During the event, he also mentioned trying a new KAI train called the Nusantara Explorer, launched to support tourism. He concluded by inaugurating the Semarang Tawang Station revitalization and expressing anticipation for the inauguration of other station revitalizations and the launch of the Trans-Sumatra Railway. Information Source: VOI English