'Jakartans should have at least two cars'

Jakarta already homes 1.3 million passenger cars. With an estimated increase of 138 units per day, vehicles in the capital have been forced to move at a snail's pace, particularly during peak hours. Although there is a demand for new car quotas, car manufacturers are still launching new models and people keep buying new cars. The Jakarta Post talked to some people about the issue.

Xiung Xiung, 33, owns a cell phone shop in ITC Cempaka Mas, Central Jakarta. He lives with his wife in Senen, also in Central Jakarta:

I personally think Jakartans should have at least two cars. One, which must be spacious, to go to work and another for their personal lifestyle.

I have no objection at all with new cars being bought by city's residents. It is their right to buy or not to buy new cars, right?

Having a car is crucial if you want to stay mobile. My job as a trader, requires me to travel from one place to another, with or without carrying goods. So far, we can't rely on the existing public transportation.

Maria Goreti, 40, vice principal of a playgroup in West Jakarta. She lives with her husband in Kedoya, West Jakarta.

I think someone must consider a car's function before he or she decides to buy one. The consideration must emphasize on how much the car will help in their daily activities.

I have a car at home but I rarely use it. I think it's more practical for me to go by taxi than driving my own car. If I take a taxi, I don't have bother with finding a parking space, coping with traffic congestion or the possibility of getting involved in a traffic accident.

-- The Jakarta Post