KAI Signs MoU with Unhas Regarding Preparation for Train Operations in South Sulawesi

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hasanuddin University concerning Research and Development of Science as well as Human Resource Education and Training. The signing of this MoU is intended as a commitment and a foundation for conducting future cooperation.

The signing of the MoU was carried out by KAI President Director Didiek Hartantyo and Unhas Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa, M.Sc. at the Hasanuddin University Rectorate Building, Makassar, Friday (3/6).

KAI President Director Didiek Hartantyo stated that this collaborative step between KAI and Unhas is highly important. This is because Unhas is a railway stakeholder in the academic field needed by KAI to jointly build a new ecosystem as well as a cultural shift in public transportation habits.

In the past, rail transportation in South Sulawesi already existed in 1923. The 47 km line serving the Pasarbutung - Takalar route was operated by Staatstramwegen op Celebes (STC), which was the Dutch East Indies train operator. However, the operational line was discontinued in 1930 due to a global economic crisis.

This year, the government through the Ministry of Transportation plans to operate Phase I of the Makassar - Parepare Train, connecting Maros - Barru for a length of 71 km. The Makassar - Parepare Railway Line project is one of the National Strategic Projects (PSN).

“In connection with the train operational plan, KAI is immediately cooperating with Hasanuddin University to conduct studies and all necessary evaluations to ensure this train can operate sustainably in Makassar, both in terms of passenger and goods transport,” Didiek said.

Didiek hopes that the studies to be carried out can be executed immediately and the joint team can focus on implementing the strategic steps required in preparation for train operations in South Sulawesi.

Unhas Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa, M.Sc. mentioned that the cooperation to be undertaken between Unhas and KAI is a form of serious attention and support toward the development of the railway construction project in South Sulawesi.

“This is a great opportunity and a good start for Unhas, and for that reason, we are ready to contribute and collaborate as optimally as possible. There are many things we must prepare together to realize the dream of the South Sulawesi people to enjoy train facilities as a safe and comfortable alternative mode of transportation," said Prof. Jamaluddin.