Whoosh Starts Full Operations in Indonesia: Fast Train Team Now 100% Local Staff Since April 2025

PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) confirmed that all Whoosh fast train operations are now fully run by drivers and technicians from Indonesia, starting from Thursday (10/4). Previously, these positions were still filled by workers from China.

Full Control by Local HR

KCIC General Manager Corporate Secretary, Eva Chairunisa, explained that currently KCIC has full control over all aspects of Whoosh operations and services. This includes the roles of machinists, technicians, chief conductors, conductors, cleaners, and security personnel—all of which are now managed by Indonesian workers.

“Currently there are 34 Indonesian machinists and 21 technicians who are ready to handle Whoosh operations with a total of 62 routes every day,” said Eva in an official statement received by TongueTechno, Thursday (10/4).

He also added that in August 2025, it is estimated that there will be an additional 33 machinists and 14 technicians who will undergo a similar process of handing over responsibilities.

Intensive Training and Certification

Eva said that all operational staff have participated in training since February 2023. This training includes theory, field practice, internship, certification from the relevant ministry, as well as direct assessment by professional experts from China.

“When doing transfer of knowledge“, staff are also given the skills to handle various situations with the aim of ensuring security and smooth operations,” he continued.

Training Time Faster Than Estimated

Interestingly, the knowledge transfer process for Whoosh machinists is faster than the standard in China. If in China it takes up to three years, in Indonesia it only takes around 1.5 years.

One factor in this acceleration is that the majority of Whoosh drivers previously had experience driving ordinary trains for more than 3,000 hours or covering a distance of around 100,000 kilometers.

Symbol of National Transportation Sovereignty

For KCIC, this achievement is an important milestone in the history of the national railway.

“This belief proves that Indonesian human power can control sophisticated transportation equipment with the latest technology and safety standards,” explained Eva.

This step is also a symbol of Indonesia’s sovereignty in operating the first fast train system in Southeast Asia.