Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his ambition to extend the Whoosh Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway network beyond Surabaya to Banyuwangi, the easternmost district of Java Island.
He unveiled the plan while responding to questions about the railway system’s sustainability amid ongoing debt concerns during the inauguration of the newly renovated Tanah Abang Station in Jakarta on Tuesday.
“I want the railway network to be expanded to Banyuwangi, not just stop in Surabaya. The target of reaching Surabaya is in the past because we now aim to cover Banyuwangi,” President Prabowo told the press.
The president emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing modern transport infrastructure such as the Whoosh, citing its significant social, economic, and environmental benefits that outweigh its financial costs.
“I don’t see any issue with us paying Rp1.2 trillion (around US$72 million) annually in debt, because this transport system helps reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and travel time—benefits that must be taken into account,” he remarked.
Further backing the high-speed train, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, Prabowo described it as a symbol of Indonesia–China cooperation and an important step for the nation toward mastering modern transportation technology.
Addressing concerns over project-related debt, he assured the public that he would personally ensure its settlement and safeguard the project’s long-term sustainability.
“I have said that, as President of the Republic of Indonesia, I will take responsibility for this issue. Hence, there’s no need for commotion because we are strong enough to handle it,” President Prabowo stated.
Prabowo also underlined that Indonesia has sufficient financial capacity to maintain the operation of the Whoosh without straining the state budget.
“There’s no need to worry. We will continue to serve and fight for the people,” he affirmed.
