"I hope the business of INKA can be improved, so it can become a world-class train manufacturer," he stated at the opening session of the 44th ASEAN Railway CEOs' Conference (ARCEOs' Conference) in Bandung on Tuesday.
According to the minister, the development of the railway sector in the country is currently on the right track, or in line with the Advanced Indonesia vision.
One of the significant developments in Indonesia's railway sector has been the Jakarta-Bandung Whoosh high-speed train, which has been operational since last year.
Sumadi claimed that the high-speed train has garnered attention not only within Indonesia but also in Asia and Europe.
"The international community is talking about how Whoosh is successful with its speed and reliability," he said.
He then outlined the development of the railway sector in urban areas, where the Jabodebek Light Rail Transit (LRT) and the Palembang LRT are being operated, as well as the autonomous tram, which has been tested in the new capital Nusantara.
Of late, he said, the government has been trying to expand the integrated mass rapid transit (MRT) network in Jakarta, which is expected to support the increasing mobility of passengers.
Train transportation has become a lifestyle choice for the people of Indonesia because of its accessibility and affordability, he added.
"I ask PT KAI (PT Kereta Api Indonesia) to continue to improve its services to the public," he said.
Baca juga: Kementerian PPPA menegaskan pelecehan merupakan tindak pidana
Baca juga: Delegasi ARCEO's 2024 tiba di Indonesia
He then urged stakeholders in the railway sector to make the most of this momentum by establishing closer cooperation and relationships with each other.
The ARCEOs' Conference is a major event and a strategic momentum to introduce innovation and qualified services in the railway sector.
The conference is expected to increase collaboration between participating countries to create a modern, sustainable, green, and service-oriented railway ecosystem. EDITED BY INE
