Jakarta boosts metro expansion through strong Japanese partnership driving urban mobility and sustainable growth

Posted on November 4, 2025

Jakarta is accelerating its journey towards a more connected and sustainable future through strong collaboration with Japanese partners driving the city’s metro expansion. This strategic partnership not only delivers new trains for the North-South Line, but also drives the transformation of Jakarta’s entire transportation ecosystem. By combining Japan’s advanced railway technology with Indonesia’s growing focus on sustainable urban development, the project aims to boost mobility, relieve congestion and encourage greener mobility across one of Asia’s busiest capitals.

Jakarta is taking another decisive step in reshaping its public transportation landscape with a new partnership between PT MRT Jakarta and major Japanese companies. Under this cooperation, eight modern train sets – each consisting of six cars – will soon join the Jakarta Metro fleet. The initiative forms a key part of the second phase of the North-South (NS) expansion, strengthening Indonesia’s long-standing alliance with Japan in modern infrastructure development and sustainable urban growth.

The newly signed contract, worth US$111.8 million, was completed on October 21, 2025, and is scheduled to be fully completed within 56 months. This new phase not only deepens Japan’s contribution to Jakarta’s mobility transformation, but also aligns with the city’s broader mission of reducing congestion, improving air quality and providing fast, efficient and reliable public transportation to millions of residents.

Strengthening long-term partnership

This collaboration builds on the success of the initial partnership that formed the basis of Jakarta’s modern metro system. In the first phase, the same Japanese consortium delivered 96 train cars, creating 16 train sets that began operating in 2019. This first line, which runs 15.7 kilometers and connects 13 major stations, marked a turning point in Jakarta’s transportation history – offering a cleaner, faster alternative to road travel in a city long plagued by traffic congestion.

Currently, the North-South Line remains the only operational metro route in Jakarta. With a track gauge of 1,067 mm and powered by a 1.5 kV DC system, it has already shown tangible success in relieving traffic congestion and reducing travel times. However, as Jakarta’s population continues to rise, the demand for a more comprehensive and integrated transportation system is becoming increasingly urgent – ​​making this expansion a critical milestone.

Accelerating the second phase towards urban efficiency

The second phase of the NS line is being developed in two main parts: Section 2A and Section 2B. Section 2A extends over a distance of 5.8 kilometers and includes seven new stations that will enhance access to all parts of the city. As of September 2025, construction progress on this section has reached more than 53 percent, indicating strong momentum toward completion.

The expansion is funded through cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency, highlighting the enduring trust and shared goals between Indonesia and Japan. Once completed, this phase will significantly increase the metro’s capacity, reduce daily congestion on the roads, and reduce carbon emissions – a key step in Jakarta’s efforts to transition towards a greener, more sustainable transportation future.

Introducing smarter, safer and more environmentally friendly trains

The upcoming trains will feature advanced safety technologies, optimized air conditioning, and energy-efficient power systems to ensure comfort, reliability and lower operating costs. Enhanced noise insulation, improved passenger flow and modern information systems will make transportation smoother and more enjoyable. These innovations are designed not only for functionality, but also to enhance the passenger experience and support Jakarta’s broader environmental goals.

By incorporating these modern features, Jakarta aims to create a transportation system that reflects the city’s identity as a forward-thinking Asian metropolis. Trains represent more than just a means of transportation, they are a symbol of innovation, resilience and long-term sustainability.

Shaping the future of mobility in Jakarta

Looking to the future, PT MRT Jakarta plans further network expansions beyond the North-South Line to connect more areas and integrate with other modes of transportation, such as light rail and bus rapid transit. These future developments will help create a unified and efficient public mobility ecosystem across the capital.

The continued expansion also includes the adoption of digital traffic management systems, data-driven planning, and environmentally friendly infrastructure solutions. Such developments will enable Jakarta to become not only more connected, but also smarter in how it manages urban mobility and environmental resources.

Jakarta is accelerating its metro expansion through strong collaboration with Japanese partners, combining advanced technology and sustainable planning to enhance urban mobility, relieve congestion, and drive the growth of greener cities.

Through this ongoing partnership with Japan, Jakarta is redefining its urban landscape and demonstrating how international cooperation can drive sustainable transformation. The city is close to achieving its vision of a clean, efficient, world-class metro system that supports its economic vitality and environmental commitments.