Mikrotrans Fare Proposed at IDR 2,000 to Prevent Passenger Data Manipulation

The Jakarta Transportation Council (DTKJ) has proposed that the Mikrotrans feeder service for Transjakarta should no longer be free, suggesting a fare of IDR 2,000 per trip. DTKJ Chairman Sugihardjo stated that the current free service creates a risk of passenger data manipulation, as operators might falsify ridership figures to meet contractual targets and avoid penalties. He explained that the existing contracts with operators include targets for both kilometres travelled and passenger numbers, and a free fare system could incentivise data fraud if actual passenger numbers fall short. By introducing a IDR 2,000 fare, Sugihardjo argued that passenger data would become more accurate, as every transaction would be recorded. He cautioned the public not to misinterpret a potential decline in recorded passenger numbers as a drop in actual ridership, suggesting that current figures may be inflated. Beyond the fare proposal, Sugihardjo stressed the need for improved service quality, noting persistent complaints about buses arriving in convoys, causing long waits, and drivers operating at high speeds. He urged operators not to solely pursue operational targets at the expense of service and safety. The proposal remains a recommendation from the council and has not yet been adopted as official policy by the Jakarta Provincial Government.