Pramono declines to debate Transjabodetabek subsidies, focuses on service improvement

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has stated he does not wish to debate Transjabodetabek tariff subsidies with the capital’s supporting regions, preferring instead to focus on ensuring inter-regional transport services run well. “I do not want to argue about whether or not others contribute. But what is clear is that we will handle Jakarta’s transport issues and those of its supporting regions in a better way,” Pramono said in Central Jakarta on Wednesday. He nevertheless expressed that he would be very grateful if other regions wished to assist with the Transjabodetabek fare subsidy. “If anyone wants to chip in, I would be extremely thankful. But they feel it is Jakarta’s need. In truth, it is not just Jakarta’s need; it is a shared need as an agglomeration,” Pramono explained. He also mentioned having been contacted by the Mayor of Bekasi regarding the matter, and affirmed that the Jakarta Government would still provide subsidies for Transjabodetabek. According to Pramono, the Rp3,500 fare is too burdensome for that route. “It is impossible not to subsidise it; it will definitely still be subsidised. But what is clear is that there will be several necessary adjustments,” Pramono stated. He said the burden of Transjabodetabek is quite significant because almost all bus stops located outside Jakarta territory must be maintained by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government. He considers this the basis for adjusting Transjabodetabek fares.