Jakarta's Public Transport Better Than Kuala Lumpur, Says Governor

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has praised the capital’s public transportation system, calling it one of the best in the world and among the top in Southeast Asia.

Citing a recent survey by global lifestyle magazine Time Out, Pramono noted that Jakarta ranked 17th globally out of 50 cities, based on responses from more than 18,500 people. 

Within the region, only Singapore came out ahead.

“Out of 50 cities, over 18,000 respondents surveyed, Jakarta is now in 17th place. In Southeast Asia, we only lost to Singapore. We’re better than Kuala Lumpur, Manila, even Bangkok,” he said, as quoted by Detik.

Jakarta’s recent public transport push includes the launch of its high-speed rail (HSR) to Bandung and the opening of its first underground MRT, both major milestones that have boosted its standing internationally. 

By contrast, Malaysia has focused on expanding its LRT and MRT networks in the Klang Valley, aiming for stronger integration, reliability, and improved payment systems. 

"the ranking highlights Jakarta’s growing international recognition for providing reliable public facilities", the governor said, stressing that the city should aim higher than 17th place.

The Time Out list of cities with the best public transport was topped by Hong Kong, followed by Shanghai, Beijing, Abu Dhabi and Taipei. Other cities in the top tier include London, Vienna, Seoul, Mumbai, Doha, and Singapore at 12th place.