While cities like Singapore and Bangkok are often praised for their advanced transit systems, Jakarta has quietly surpassed them all — at least in terms of total network length. As of 2025, the Indonesian capital and its surrounding metropolitan area officially operate the longest urban rail network in Southeast Asia, covering 418 kilometers.
This milestone marks a significant moment in Jakarta’s ongoing effort to modernize its public transportation and reduce dependence on private vehicles.
A Growing and Integrated Rail System
Jakarta's urban rail system is not confined to a single mode of transport. Instead, it comprises several interconnected services that together form the Jabodetabek area’s public transport backbone:
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KRL Commuter Line (Kereta Rel Listrik)
The largest component of the system, the KRL spans 418 kilometers and connects Jakarta with surrounding cities such as Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi, and Rangkasbitung. It serves millions of daily commuters.
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MRT Jakarta (Mass Rapid Transit)
Opened in 2019, this modern rail system currently operates one line with a length of 15.7 km. Construction of new phases is ongoing. -
LRT Jakarta (Light Rail Transit)
A smaller-scale system operating in East Jakarta, currently covering 5.8 km.
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Jabodebek LRT
Launched in 2023, this elevated light rail line stretches 44.5 km and links Jakarta with major suburbs such as Bekasi and Depok.
Comparison with Other Southeast Asian Cities
| City | Rail Network Length | System Components |
|---|---|---|
| Jakarta | 418 km | KRL, MRT, LRT Jakarta, Jabodebek LRT |
| Bangkok | ~275 km | BTS, MRT, Airport Rail Link, SRT |
| Singapore | ~269 km | MRT and LRT (fully integrated) |
| Kuala Lumpur | ~140 km | MRT, LRT, Monorail |
| Manila | ~50 km+ | MRT, LRT, ongoing subway project |
Jakarta’s rail network, while not yet as technologically advanced or fully integrated as Singapore’s, now leads the region in total coverage. This reflects a major transformation for a city once known primarily for its traffic congestion.
An Urban Shift in Motion
The expansion of Jakarta’s rail infrastructure is more than just a matter of numbers. It represents a broader strategy by the Indonesian government to improve public mobility, reduce emissions, and prepare for the urban demands of the future.
While challenges remain — such as integration, and accessibility — the scale and pace of development point to a changing landscape in how Indonesians commute.
