Suite Class Train Compartment Customers Increase in 2025 as the Journey Becomes the Destination

Amidst changing perceptions of Travel, trains in Indonesia are gradually shifting from mere transportation tools to becoming part of the tourism experience itself. 

This trend is clearly reflected in the 2025 performance of Suite Class Compartment Trains owned by PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero), which recorded surges in passenger numbers alongside economic and environmental impacts.

PT Kereta Api Indonesia Persero (KAI) reported positive performance for its Suite Class Compartment Train service throughout 2025, serving 42,118 passengers while supporting tourism and regional economic equity through low-emission mobility.

This figure grew 47.8 percent compared to 2024, which reached 28,496 passengers.

According to KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication Anne Purba, this growth reflects increasing public interest in long-distance travel prioritizing privacy, comfort, and experience quality.

Anne added that this achievement aligns with government policies promoting Quality Tourism, inter-regional economic growth equity, and strengthening sustainable Public Transportation.

Anne stated this positive trend indicates a shift in public perspectives toward travel. Trains are no longer seen merely as vehicles to move between cities but as integral to the tourism experience.

"When journeys become comfortable and memorable, tourism interest increases, and economic benefits flow to destination regions," she said in a statement in Jakarta on Monday.

Monthly data shows July 2025 had the highest passenger count at 5,157, followed by December 2025 with 4,906 passengers.

This surge aligned with school holidays, Year-End Holidays, and increased family trips and premium tourist travel to various destinations.

Beyond passenger statistics, increased Suite Class Compartment usage boosts economic activity around stations and tourist destinations.

Comfortable mobility strengthens tourism visits, driving hospitality, culinary, onward transportation, and local MSME sectors.

Longer-duration journeys extend tourist stays, increasing tourism spending and spreading economic benefits more widely.

"This aligns with government programs making tourism a driver of regional economies, job creation, and local economic strengthening," Anne added.

Ecologically, this growth holds significance from a sustainability perspective.

She explained that from an ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standpoint, enhancing premium train services also supports Sustainable Tourism.

Trains are mass transit with lower emission footprints than private vehicles or planes for medium distances, encouraging a shift toward eco-friendlier mobility.

As more tourists choose trains, travel emissions can be reduced while preserving environmental quality at destinations.

Socially, quality services enhance tourism access inclusivity, create economic opportunities for local businesses, and strengthen MSME involvement around stations and tourist areas.

Economic circulation benefits not only major cities but also regional destinations.

Regarding governance, KAI ensures service development maintains consistent safety standards, service quality, and operational transparency.

Service innovations are delivered through measurable planning processes focused on customer needs and aligned with long-term sustainability principles.

The Suite Class Compartment train was first launched on October 10, 2023, at Gambir Station. Each train features 16 private rooms with automatic sliding doors, 180-degree reclining seats, massage and seat-warming functions, Train Onboard Infotainment System, and full meal services.

Currently, Suite Class Compartment operates on the Bima route (Gambir-Surabaya Gubeng roundtrip); Argo Semeru route (Gambir-Surabaya Gubeng roundtrip); and Argo Bromo Anggrek route (Gambir–Surabaya Pasar Turi roundtrip).