KA Rajabasa: Sumatra’s Longest Train, Woven into the Fabric of Community Life
On the island of Sumatra, journeys always carry their own stories. Some depart early in the morning to earn a livelihood, others travel long distances to reunite with family, and many are simply walking the path toward their aspirations. Amidst all these movements, the Rajabasa Train serves as a bridge, connecting countless footsteps of life along a single long corridor.
Throughout the first quarter of 2026, the Rajabasa Train served 221,406 passengers, representing a 36.48% increase compared to the same period in 2025, which recorded 162,230 passengers. This surge highlights the growing public reliance on railway transportation in Southern Sumatra, making it an increasingly vital part of everyday life.
Vice President of Corporate Communication at KAI, Anne Purba, stated that train travel is now closer than ever to the community's daily routines.
"Every journey holds a special meaning for each person. Some leave for work, to trade, pursue education, or return home. Trains are present right in the middle of it all, connecting the steps that keep moving forward every single day," she said.
To accommodate this growing demand, KAI has expanded the Rajabasa Train's composition to 8 economy-class cars (K3), up from the previous 5 cars. This enhancement provides greater capacity, ensuring that even more people can travel comfortably and affordably.
With a fare of just Rp32,000 for the longest route spanning Tanjung Karang to Kertapati, the Rajabasa Train remains an accessible travel option for all segments of society. For many, this journey opens up vital access to stay connected, pursue new opportunities, and maintain close ties with family across different cities.
The Rajabasa Train journey begins in Tanjung Karang, Bandar Lampung, before moving through Rejosari, Tegineneng, and Bekri—areas well-known for their agricultural activity and vibrant local life. In Kotabumi and its surroundings, the train becomes a key driver of local trade mobility, making regional travel far more accessible.
Entering Blambangan Umpu, Martapura, and Baturaja, the Rajabasa Train links steadily developing regions to local economic and social activities. In Prabumulih, the route intersects with industrial and energy hubs that serve as regional economic powerhouses, before finally arriving at Kertapati in Palembang as a major transportation node.
Along this entire corridor, the journey showcases the distinct and warm character of Sumatra. Passengers can gaze at traditional Lampung stilt houses still standing in various areas, vast expanses of fields and plantations, and the cozy charm of small towns growing around the stations. As it enters South Sumatra, cultural nuances emerge through traditional *limas* houses characteristic of Palembang, alongside regional culinary delights like *pempek*, which draws many visitors upon arrival.
Traveling aboard the Rajabasa Train offers a space to enjoy shifting landscapes from the window, experience a calm travel rhythm, and stop by towns filled with stories and warm local communities.
At every station stop, the Rajabasa Train delivers closer accessibility for the public. Anne added that within a single trainset, countless personal stories travel side by side.
"In a single journey, we witness countless different destinations. This train is here for all of us, shared every day, and growing alongside the community's needs. From there, this journey becomes an integral part of the life path we walk," Anne concluded.
VP Corporate Communication KAI