Trans Jatim Malang Raya Passengers Surge During Eid Holiday, Batu City Becomes Favourite

MALANG - Public enthusiasm for the Trans Jatim service in the Malang Raya region during the Eid 2026 period experienced a significant surge, with Batu City as the favourite destination.

Based on data from the Load Factor (LF) Report or occupancy rate of Trans Jatim Coordinator 1 Malang Raya, the number of passengers on the first day of Eid, Saturday (21/3/2026), was recorded at 1,394 people.

Meanwhile, on the second day of Eid, Sunday (22/3/2026), the number of passengers increased to 2,765 people, consisting of 2,738 general passengers and 22 students.

The total trips recorded were 84 journeys with an occupancy rate of 94 per cent and an average of 168 passengers per hour.

The surge occurred again on the third day of Eid, Monday (23/3/2026), with total passengers reaching 3,044 people.

This number consisted of 2,825 general passengers, 218 students, and one student from an Islamic boarding school. The total trips again reached 84 journeys with an occupancy rate exceeding 104 per cent, and an average of 184 passengers per hour.

The Commitment Making Official (PPK) for Road Transport of the East Java Transportation Department, Cito Eko Yuli Saputro, said that the high number of passengers was inseparable from the free service policy on the first two days of Eid.

“On the first and second days of Eid transport, Trans Jatim was free. However, enthusiasm increased sharply until yesterday, 30 March 2026,” Cito said when confirmed on Tuesday (31/3/2026).

“On average, there were 181 passengers per hour. From that number, the majority were indeed heading to tourist destinations, especially in Batu City,” Cito explained.

To support operations, they deployed 14 Trans Jatim fleets, with additional reserve fleets on standby to anticipate technical disruptions.

“The total fleet we operated was 14 buses; we prepared reserves if any experienced issues. Because 14 buses are still sufficient for the needs,” he explained.

One of the passengers, Mega Silvia, admitted that Trans Jatim has become the primary choice for travelling within the city in recent months.

She rated the service provided as quite satisfactory, from comfort to the friendliness of the staff. In addition, the affordable fare was the main reason she chose this mode of transport.

“Trans Jatim is cheap, whether short or long distance, only Rp 5,000. Very different from other transport. The buses are also clean and comfortable,” said Mega.