The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DKI Jakarta) has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving the city's target of fully transitioning to electric buses by 2030. This initiative is a pivotal component of Jakarta's strategy to promote environmentally friendly public transportation and reduce emissions, aligning with its vision to become a global city.

Basri Baco, Deputy Chairman of DPRD DKI Jakarta, emphasized that the adoption of electric buses is a flagship program that must be realized. He noted that the local government has been allocating funds progressively to ensure the seamless conversion of TransJakarta's fleet to electric buses. "Each year, we have started budgeting gradually but surely. Every year, there is a replacement," stated the Golkar Party politician.

Despite the optimism, Baco acknowledged several challenges, particularly in terms of funding and infrastructure readiness. The transition relies heavily on the capabilities of operators and support from the Jakarta Provincial Government. The procurement system for TransJakarta buses involves multiple operators, including Damri, Bianglala, and Mayasari. "We are moving towards Domestic Component Level (TKDN), so it's not build-up; the problem is that the process is not fast," he added.

Nevertheless, the coordinator of Commission B of DPRD DKI Jakarta remains optimistic that the target can be achieved within the next five years, potentially even before 2030. He also stressed the importance of enhancing comfort across bus corridors and conducting more extensive socialization efforts to encourage public adoption of electric buses. "We must pursue the 2030 electric bus target within these five years. In fact, we are optimistic that the target will be achieved before 2030," Baco asserted.

Similarly, DPRD DKI Jakarta Chairman Khoirudin highlighted that the shift to electric-based transportation requires substantial investment, including government subsidies. He expressed hope that the public would maximize the use of these services. "For everyone to use electric buses (public transportation), our efforts are extraordinary. The investment is significant, the subsidies are substantial; it would be a shame if not utilized by Jakarta residents," Khoirudin concluded.

This commitment aligns with Jakarta's broader goal to have 10,000 electric buses in service by 2030. The public bus system, TransJakarta, has initiated this transition by procuring 100 zero-emission buses to date.

The move towards electric buses is part of Jakarta's comprehensive plan to promote public transport usage to 60% and fully electrify TransJakarta's fleet by 2030.

In support of this initiative, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has been assisting TransJakarta in electrifying its bus fleet. So far, 100 new buses have been purchased under a pilot scheme, with just over 50 already operating in the capital. The plan includes a commitment, underpinned by a decree from the governor of Jakarta Province, to replace the remaining fleet with electric buses.

The transition to electric buses is a strategic move to reduce emissions and establish Jakarta as a global city committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly public transportation.