AHY: Jakarta-Surabaya Journey Achievable in 3 Hours if Whoosh Extended, Will Reshape Development Map
Jakarta, Kompas.com — Infrastructure and Territorial Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has commented on plans to extend the Jakarta-Bandung fast train route, known as Whoosh, to Surabaya in East Java.
He stated that the Jakarta-Surabaya journey could be completed in approximately 3 hours if the Whoosh route is extended there.
“If Jakarta-Surabaya can be covered in around 3 hours by train, I believe this will reshape the development map and simultaneously introduce new economic growth along the new corridor,” AHY said during a press conference at the Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday (11 March 2026).
AHY explained that the maximum speed of Whoosh would be more beneficial if it did not stop at stations that are relatively close together.
“Given the speed of 350 km/h, if the distance is 600 to 800 kilometres, the speed benefit will be truly felt compared with shorter distances or tracks,” he explained.
“Because once reaching peak speed, it must then slow down again in preparation to stop at the next station. That’s the logic behind it,” AHY added.
Therefore, AHY believes Whoosh should be extended to Surabaya as it could be a game changer for development.
“Clearly, we continue to manage and develop the momentum. The Ministry of Transport, including the Directorate General of Railways, continues to formulate together with PT Kereta Api Indonesia and others, so that this fast train can be more effectively felt as beneficial if the track is long,” he said.
AHY also disclosed that he has held meetings with the State-Owned Enterprises Minister and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa regarding Whoosh’s debt.
“Why is this important? Because before we develop a more serious roadmap to extend or develop Jakarta-Surabaya, which could even extend to Banyuwangi as per President Prabowo Subianto’s direction, we should first ensure the Jakarta-Bandung fast train is complete, meaning its solution can be properly resolved before we then develop further,” AHY said.