KAI Enhances Long-Distance Service Through Dining Car Modernization

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is actively enhancing its long-distance train services through the modernization of its executive dining cars (M1). This initiative is part of a broader commitment to provide passengers with a more comfortable, safe, and memorable travel experience.

As of mid-2026, KAI has successfully updated 17 dining cars, which are now operational. An additional 10 cars are currently undergoing upgrades at the Tegal Balai Yasa facility. This ongoing effort underscores KAI's dedication to improving not just punctuality, but also the quality of onboard facilities.

"The M1 Dining Car plays an important role in long-distance travel. In this space, customers can enjoy food and drinks, take a short break, and experience a warmer travel atmosphere. Therefore, improving the quality of M1 is also a focus for KAI," stated Anne Purba, Vice President of Corporate Communication at KAI.

Over the past two years, the Tegal Balai Yasa has completed the modernization of 17 M1 dining cars, with four finished in 2024 and 13 in 2025. These cars are now integrated into various long-distance train services. The facility continues its work in 2026, focusing on 10 more M1 dining cars, which involves comprehensive checks of the chassis, bogies, braking systems, electrical installations, interior design, and safety testing.

The upgrades extend beyond technical aspects to passenger comfort, featuring a more functional layout, improved lighting, comfortable seating, and a better-organized dining area. KAI is also applying these modernizations to the KA Sindang Marga train service between Kertapati and Lubuklinggau, aiming to enrich the passenger experience in South Sumatra.

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The M1 Dining Car plays an important role in long-distance travel. In this space, customers can enjoy food and drinks, take a short break, and experience a warmer travel atmosphere. Therefore, improving the quality of M1 is also a focus for KAI.