Indonesia's first high-speed rail line, Whoosh, connecting Jakarta and Bandung, is facing mounting financial pressure despite operational achievements and growing passenger numbers, according to reports by The Straits Times and KBA News.

The 142-kilometre service, which began operations in October 2023, can reach speeds of up to 350 km/h and shortens the journey between the capital and Bandung to just 45 minutes. Government data cited by The Straits Times shows the line has carried more than 10 million passengers since launch, exceeding early adoption forecasts.

However, the Whoosh project remains unprofitable. KBA News reports that the China-Indonesia joint venture operating the service continues to incur significant losses, driven by high construction and operational costs and lower-than-projected revenue. The rail line, built at an estimated cost of US$7.3 billion (RM34.4 billion), has also been affected by debt repayments and interest burdens.

Indonesia's government has announced plans to extend the line from Bandung to Surabaya, creating a longer north-south corridor. Transport analysts quoted by The Straits Times have cautioned that further expansion could deepen financial risks without adjustments to the business model, such as optimising ticket pricing, boosting occupancy rates, and exploring non-fare revenue sources.

The Whoosh service is part of Indonesia's broader push to modernise infrastructure and reduce travel times in one of Southeast Asia's largest economies. Yet, as The Straits Times notes, its financial struggles highlight the challenge of balancing technological ambition with long-term economic viability.

If addressed effectively, lessons from the Whoosh experience could shape the region's future of high-speed rail development.

Sources: The Straits Times, KBA News