From Massage Chairs to Barbershop: Serambi MyPertamina Batang Becomes Oasis for Homebound Travellers
For many travellers undertaking long journeys on the Trans Java Toll Road, fatigue often sets in before reaching Semarang or Solo. At this critical juncture, PT Pertamina (Persero) has established a free rest facility for road users known as Serambi MyPertamina at the KM 379A Rest Area in Batang.
Taufik Kurniawan, Area Manager for Communication, Relations, and Corporate Social Responsibility at Pertamina Patra Niaga Central Java Region, stated that this location serves as both a rest stop and energy replenishment point for homebound travellers.
“Rest Area 379A is renowned as a fatigue and refuelling point for travellers transiting the Trans Java Toll Road. For this reason, we have introduced Serambi MyPertamina so that all family members can benefit from it,” Taufik said when interviewed at the location.
The strategic location makes this rest area a crucial stopping point for drivers heading from Jakarta towards Central Java and East Java. Many travellers stop here before continuing their journey to Semarang, Solo, or villages in the eastern regions of Java.
Inside Serambi MyPertamina, visitors find facilities unusual for a typical rest area. The spacious premises are equipped with massage chairs that help drivers relax their bodies after hours of driving.
According to Taufik, the facility is also connected to safety considerations. Excessively fatigued drivers risk accidents if they continue driving.
“Drivers can relax in the massage chairs first to feel refreshed before continuing their journey,” he explained.
Not only drivers are catered for. Pertamina has designed this space to be family-friendly for all homebound travellers. Inside, there is a lactation room for nursing mothers, a prayer room, and a children’s play area equipped with educational materials.
Children can play safely in the kids corner, whilst parents rest or attend to travel necessities.
For teenagers, more modern entertainment is available. Visitors can play games using PlayStation 5 consoles, including football games that are often favourites among young travellers.
Beyond entertainment, Serambi MyPertamina also offers personal care services. Visitors can have their skin condition checked through a skin check facility to determine appropriate skincare treatments.
Not far away is a free barbershop called The Bright Barber, ready to tidy up travellers’ hair before they arrive at their villages. “If someone has forgotten to get a haircut or wants to look neater when meeting family, they can get a haircut here,” Taufik said.
In another corner, a bread corner provides free light refreshments. Travellers simply need to show the MyPertamina application to collect food or beverages. This facility is often used by travellers rushing to break their fast during Ramadan or wanting to bring travel provisions without having to queue at rest area restaurants that are usually crowded.