Prabowo: Dilemma of wanting high-speed rail while small towns are left behind

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto stated that railways must serve all people without exception, acknowledging a dilemma between developing high-speed rail and potentially leaving smaller towns behind.

"Sometimes there is a dilemma, wanting high-speed trains, but in the end, small towns are not served. Yes, we are pursuing modernization, we are pursuing technology, but remember, technology and all facilities are to serve the people. This is a message I convey to Kereta Api Indonesia," Prabowo said at Semarang Tawang Station on Thursday.

Prabowo noted that in many countries, railways are considered a public service, not solely profit-driven. He believes public railway transportation is a vital instrument for growing the Indonesian economy and fostering economic democratization.

He further stated that railways bring broad benefits, especially to low-income individuals, and play a significant role as an economical logistics instrument. Following this, the government plans to develop the Trans-Sumatra Railway, with potential parallel development of the Trans-Kalimantan railway.

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Sometimes there is a dilemma, wanting high-speed trains, but in the end, small towns are not served. Yes, we are pursuing modernization, we are pursuing technology, but remember, technology and all facilities are to serve the people. This is a message I convey to Kereta Api Indonesia.