Train Timetable Changes: KAI Responds to PJKA Commuters’ Complaints

JAKARTA — PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero), or KAI, Vice President of Corporate Communications Anne Purba said she understood the disappointment of some passengers, including commuters known as Pergi Jumat Kembali Ahad (PJKA), following the latest train timetable changes. Anne said KAI had listened to customers’ complaints about changes to long-distance train (KAJJ) schedules under the 2026 Train Travel Plan (Gapeka), which takes effect on 1 December 2026.

“We understand that this train schedule cannot satisfy everyone,” Anne said at a press conference at Amanaia Menteng restaurant in Jakarta on Tuesday (3 November 2026). She was responding to a range of public reactions to the timetable adjustments.

Changes under Gapeka 2026 include the departure time of the Majapahit train from Pasar Senen to Malang, which has been brought forward from 5.40pm to 2.15pm from Pasar Senen Station. This makes it harder for PJKA commuters to catch the train after work on Fridays.

Anne said KAI was offering alternative journeys for passengers affected by changes to particular services. She hoped passengers would be able to adjust to the new timetable.

“We can confirm that there are many train options in the morning, afternoon, evening and at night. We therefore recommend checking the route first and then looking at the available train names,” Anne said. The approach is intended to make it easier for the public to choose a suitable time to travel.

Anne said KAI always listened to feedback from passengers. She added that the changes under Gapeka 2026 were intended to improve services, including by adding some long-distance train journeys.

“With the implementation of this train plan, carrying capacity is increasing. That means the number of trains is growing. It is therefore important to check the routes, so that we can offer other alternatives beyond the trains people usually take,” Anne said.

Anne said KAI had adjusted Gapeka 2026 in response to projected annual growth of 8 to 12 per cent in rail passenger numbers. KAI had also revised journey times and the frequency of long-distance services, and added stops at stations including Bekasi, Cikarang and Jatinegara.

“These operating patterns allow us to continue serving passengers with operational excellence, safety and on-time performance,” Anne said.