Makassar–Parepare Railway Records 27.82 Percent Passenger Growth, Ready to Support Eid 2026 Travel in Eastern Indonesia

Public mobility in South Sulawesi continues to move dynamically, with the Makassar–Parepare Train serving as a vital component of this movement. This pioneer train service demonstrates consistent passenger growth while reinforcing readiness to handle increased travel during the 2026 Eid holiday period. 

Throughout February 2026, the Makassar–Parepare Train served 22,923 passengers, a 27.82 percent increase compared to February 2025, which recorded 17,935 passengers. This rise reflects growing public trust in rail transport as a safe, comfortable, and efficient travel option. 

Cumulatively from January through February 2026, total passengers reached 51,068 people, a significant increase compared to 35,878 passengers during the same period in 2025. This growth highlights the strategic role of the Makassar–Parepare Train in supporting daily mobility and driving economic activity across the regions it traverses. 

Vice President of Corporate Communication at KAI, Anne Purba, stated that this positive trend serves as an important foundation heading into the 2026 Eid transport period. 

"Passenger growth demonstrates that the Makassar–Parepare Train is increasingly trusted by the public. We are ensuring operational, fleet, and service readiness so that journeys during the Eid period run safely, smoothly, and comfortably," said Anne. 

Since beginning operations in October 2022, the Makassar–Parepare Train has served 876,580 passengers. This figure illustrates the vital importance of rail transportation in expanding inter-regional access and strengthening connectivity in South Sulawesi. 

Currently, the Makassar–Parepare Train operates along a route spanning approximately 90 kilometers from Mandai Station in Maros to Garongkong Station in Barru. The line passes through three regencies—Maros, Pangkep, and Barru—with primary stops at Maros, Labakkang, and Garongkong. Operating at speeds of up to 85 kilometers per hour, it offers concise and well-scheduled journeys. 

Beyond supporting community mobility, this route unlocks access to various tourism opportunities. The Maros karst landscape, the scenery and coastal areas of Pangkep, and the ocean views of Barru are now more accessible via train. The presence of the Makassar–Parepare Train also drives tourist movement and local economic growth along the corridor. 

Facing Eid 2026, KAI Group along with supporting stakeholders of the Pioneer Train will ensure all service aspects operate at optimal levels, from fleet and infrastructure readiness to ground personnel. This service provides an affordable and comfortable travel choice for communities in Eastern Indonesia looking to gather with families or engage in leisure travel. 

"We are committed to maintaining travel reliability so that the public can celebrate Eid with peace of mind. The Makassar–Parepare Train stands ready to serve as a bridge for togetherness in South Sulawesi," Anne concluded. 

VP Corporate Communication KAI