Transjakarta Apologizes After Passenger Removed Over Body Odor Complaint

PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) has issued an apology following an incident where a passenger was asked to leave a bus at the Kampung Melayu bus stop in East Jakarta. The company stated that the action was taken based on reports from other passengers about a strong, unpleasant odor emanating from the individual.

Ayu Wardhani, Head of Public Relations and CSR at Transjakarta, confirmed the incident, explaining that the bus operator approached the passenger after receiving complaints about the smell. "We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience experienced by customers. Our officers on the ground acted based on reports from other customers at the location, due to a very strong odor," Wardhani said in a statement.

According to Transjakarta's information, the passenger removed from the bus was believed to be experiencing homelessness. The company is coordinating with the Social Services Department to ensure the individual receives appropriate assistance and handling. This incident has prompted Transjakarta to conduct a thorough review of its standard operating procedures (SOPs) and enhance officer training.

The company emphasized its commitment to improving service quality, ensuring both public comfort and adherence to humanitarian principles. The incident gained attention after a video circulated on social media showing a Transjakarta officer asking the passenger to disembark, with the officer citing potential complaints from other passengers. Some netizens expressed disapproval of the manner in which the passenger was removed, deeming it inappropriate.

“

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience experienced by customers. Our officers on the ground acted based on reports from other customers at the location, due to a very strong odor.