Chinese master teaches Indonesian driver to start driving Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train_1
On October 17, the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail celebrated its first anniversary of operation. During interviews that day, it was revealed that local Indonesian drivers have begun operating the high-speed trains, showcasing their presence on multiple services.
A representative from China Railway International Co., Ltd. explained that these Indonesian drivers are currently navigating the trains under the close supervision and guidance of their Chinese counterparts, and they are now nearly capable of independent operation of the high-speed trains. This lays a strong foundation for Indonesia to achieve autonomous high-speed rail operations in the future.
Connecting Jakarta and Bandung, the high-speed rail line can reach operational speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour. Since its official launch on October 17, 2023, the Chinese team has successfully trained 419 initial candidates for various roles, including train drivers.
“I see this as a whole new challenge,” said Raan Zha, a driver from Jliliwen in West Java, who comes with ten years of experience driving diesel locomotives. “The Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail is Indonesia’s first high-speed line, and my family is extremely proud of me for becoming a high-speed train driver,” he shared with excitement.
The Beijing Bureau of China Railway Group is responsible for conducting adaptive training for 32 Indonesian drivers. Through theoretical lessons, the trainees gained essential knowledge about high-speed rail systems. They practiced operational simulations based on Chinese standards and benefited from hands-on training, where Chinese mentors generously shared their expertise without reservation.
“It’s an honor for me to be involved in training Indonesian high-speed rail drivers and to pass on all my knowledge and driving skills to them,” said Wu Wei, one of the Chinese mentors, who expressed pride in witnessing the progress of his students. He noted that the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail embodies “China Speed,” highlighting the smooth operation of each train and the seamless transition of responsibilities as a showcase of Chinese standards and high-speed rail branding.
Raan Zha reflected on his experience driving the high-speed trains: “The speed is incredible, the view is vast, and the scenery is completely different from what one would see on a traditional train.” He eagerly expressed his desire to master high-speed train operation techniques in the future.
China Railway International Co., Ltd. indicated that the operation and maintenance of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail are expected to become fully localized in the coming years.
