Transjakarta explains reason for removing passenger at Kampung Melayu

Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Transportasi Jakarta has stated that the action of an officer removing a passenger from a bus at the Kampung Melayu shelter in East Jakarta on Monday (3/8) was based on a report that the passenger was suspected of having a pungent smell. “We sincerely apologise for the discomfort experienced by the customer. Our officers acted in the field based on reports from other customers at the location, due to a very strong odour,” said Head of the Public Relations and CSR Department of Transjakarta, Ayu Wardhani, in an official statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday. According to Ayu, the officer approached the passenger until he eventually disembarked from the bus. Ayu explained that the passenger was believed to be homeless based on information obtained. Transjakarta, she continued, is coordinating with the Social Affairs Agency regarding the passenger’s whereabouts so that he can receive proper handling and assistance. She said the incident serves as material for in-depth evaluation and ensures that Transjakarta is committed to continuously improving its SOPs and training officer sensitivity so that services not only maintain public comfort but also always prioritise humanity. Previously, a video showing an officer asking a passenger to get off a bus at the Kampung Melayu Transjakarta shelter circulated on social media and drew responses from netizens. In the video, the officer said, “Please get off, sir, otherwise there will be complaints from the others. I apologise.” Some netizens expressed regret over the manner in which the officer removed the passenger, deeming it inappropriate.