Jakarta. City-owned bus operator Transjakarta marked its 12th anniversary on Friday, marked its 12th anniversary on Friday, with officials highlighting the bus rapid transit system’s Rp 73.8 trillion ($4.35 billion) contribution to Jakarta’s economy.

“Transjakarta has calculated that for every Rp 1 trillion invested, it contributes approximately Rp 3.2 trillion to Jakarta’s economy. As of yesterday, the total economic value generated has reached Rp 73.8 trillion,” Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said at the Tosari Transjakarta bus stop.

The operator now serves 92.5% of Jakarta’s area, carrying around 1.4 million passengers daily. The network’s expansion and ridership growth have also drawn international recognition.

According to Pramono, data from global media brand Time Out ranked Transjakarta 17th among the world’s best transport infrastructures, and second in Asia after Singapore.

Jakarta City Council Speaker Khoirudin reaffirmed legislative backing for transport subsidies through the public service obligation (PSO) scheme. He said the Rp 4.8 trillion allocation approved by the council is expected to deliver a sizable multiplier effect.

"The council, through its budgetary authority, has agreed to provide Rp 4.8 trillion in PSO funding. This accounts for nearly 6% of our regional budget and will be allocated to Transjakarta,” Khoirudin said.

Despite the strong economic performance, Pramono stressed that operational safety remains a top priority, urging firm action against any negligence in the field.

Meanwhile, Transjakarta President Director Welfizon said the company continues to improve driver quality through its Transjakarta Academy program.

“As part of our efforts, we are rejuvenating Mikrotrans drivers. From the recent selection process, 125 drivers will be deployed. In addition, we are preparing 20 of our best drivers for an exchange program in Japan,” Welfizon said.

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