He told reporters at the Ministry of Finance that discussions are ongoing and no final decision has been made. He indicated that debt management will likely involve a shared approach between the government and the state sovereign investment body, BPI Danantara.
“Infrastructure components like tracks and stations would fall under the government, while rolling stock responsibilities would be handled by the operator. I haven’t received a final conclusion yet, so I will follow the discussions and make sure it’s in the nation’s best financial interest,” Purbaya said.
Danantara Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria said the agency will focus on operational aspects of Whoosh, aiming to make the service more efficient and responsive to commuter needs between Jakarta and Bandung. Meanwhile, the government would manage and strengthen supporting infrastructure.
“President Prabowo emphasized that Whoosh has provided significant benefits to society and the economy. Managing the debt is part of ensuring the sustainability of this modern transport service,” Dony said.
The coordinated approach is intended to maintain the service’s operational efficiency, encourage wider public use, and secure long-term financial sustainability.
Danantara and the government are expected to finalize the specific roles and financial responsibilities as discussions continue. Both parties have stressed that careful planning is essential to avoid losses while maintaining uninterrupted service for passengers.
On November 4, 2025, President Prabowo Subianto affirmed that, as Head of State, he would take full responsibility for the Whoosh high-speed rail’s controversies and operations.
He made the statement after inaugurating the new Tanah Abang Station in Central Jakarta, responding to reporters’ questions about Whoosh’s debt.
“Don’t worry about the Whoosh fuss. I’ve studied the issue—it’s fine. I’ll take responsibility for everything,” he said.
The high-speed rail project, Indonesia’s first, represents a major step in modernizing transportation infrastructure and enhancing connectivity between the capital and West Java.
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Translator: I.Silfia, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
