This article has been translated by PwC Indonesia as part of our Indonesia Infrastructure News Service. PwC Indonesia has not checked the accuracy of, and accepts no responsibility for the content.
Bisnis Indonesia - Wilayah aglomerasi Jabodetabek: Efek berantai perluasan proyek MRT
27 May 2025
By Jessica Gabriela Soehandoko and Alifian Asmaaysi
The plan to expand the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network to Banten is gaining clarity, with efforts to strengthen railway connectivity in the Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) agglomeration expected to create positive ripple effects.
The proposed expansion of the MRT network into Tangerang and South Tangerang in Banten Province has found momentum, as the Jakarta Provincial Government has committed initial funding for construction.
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung expressed willingness to provide the initial investment, provided that the Banten Provincial Government actively participates in the project.
"If the Banten government agrees, we can start immediately. I have even informed Banten authorities that if basic capital is needed, Jakarta can provide it. The next steps will depend on the business-to-business (B2B) calculations," Pramono stated on Monday (26/5).
Since most of the project falls under Jakarta’s jurisdiction, including its management, Pramono also opened discussions on Banten holding shares in the expansion initiative.
During a joint press conference with Governor Andra Soni, Pramono revealed that Jakarta Province had decided to open five new MRT routes, two of which will connect directly to Tangerang and South Tangerang.
"We are committed to ensuring that the MRT does not stop at Lebak Bulus [Jakarta] but extends further to Balaraja [Tangerang]," Pramono explained.
He previously discussed the MRT expansion plan after attending a hearing of Commission II of the House of Representatives (DPR) in Senayan on Wednesday (30/4). "After completing the northern and southern routes, and with work already started on the east and west corridors, expansion into South Tangerang is a necessary next step."
CEO of MRT Jakarta, Tuhiyat, confirmed that his organisation fully supports extending MRT lines to improve interconnectivity between Jakarta and its surrounding satellite cities.
MRT Jakarta had previously discussed the proposal with South Tangerang Mayor Airin Rachmi Diany and the Greater Jakarta Transport Authority (BPTJ). However, progress had stalled due to financing constraints.
South Tangerang Mayor Benyamin Davnie stated that his administration is currently conducting a feasibility study (FS) on the MRT expansion, funded by Jakarta Province.
"Yes, the feasibility study is ongoing," he said on Monday (5/5). In addition to collaboration with Jakarta Province, Benyamin noted that his administration is maintaining intensive discussions with PT MRT Jakarta (Perseroda).
Ripple effects
Expanding the MRT network into Banten will not only shift commuters away from private vehicles toward mass transportation—helping to ease Jakarta’s congestion—but will also generate broader economic benefits across the Banten region.
"I am very interested in strengthening connectivity across the agglomeration areas. I envision an extended MRT line running from Lebak Bulus to Serpong," said Andra Soni on Tuesday (18/3).
He emphasised that enhanced connectivity is crucial for Banten’s efforts to develop Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in education, technology, and healthcare.
Beyond economic growth across sectors, SEZs will also provide opportunities for young people to participate in emerging ecosystems. "Since these zones focus on digital and advanced technology, Banten residents must be prepared to engage," Andra stated.
Ciputra Group Managing Director, Budiarsa Sastrawinata, believes that the government's plan to extend MRT Jakarta into South Tangerang will accelerate property development in and around the area.
According to him, this expansion is likely to increase consumer interest in purchasing homes in the vicinity. "I believe that improved access—whether through MRT or toll roads—will always have a positive impact. It is not just about BSD; any area will benefit from better connectivity, which ultimately drives regional development," he explained on Friday (23/5).
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