Leuwipanjang Terminal Launched by Indonesian President in Bandung
Bandung, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo inaugurated the Leuwipanjang Terminal in Bandung, West Java, on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the region’s transportation infrastructure. The presidential entourage, led by Jokowi and accompanied by First Lady Iriana, arrived at the terminal around 12:50 p.m. local time, with the president’s car escorted by the Presidential Security Forces and regional security forces.
During the inauguration, Jokowi also remotely inaugurated the Banjar Terminal, located at another site in West Java, highlighting the administration’s commitment to advancing transportation connectivity across the region.
The inauguration ceremony drew a large crowd, with people enthusiastically welcoming President Jokowi, who arrived dressed in white clothing and black pants. The crowd echoed their support with chants of “Jokowi, Jokowi.”
In his address, President Jokowi underscored the transformative impact of the Leuwipanjang Terminal, previously known for various challenges. He stated, “Leuwipanjang Terminal, which was usually filled with a lot of thugs and so on, is now cool. This will encourage people to use public transportation and improve the connectivity of Bandung and Banjar to various cities.”
The event saw the presence of key officials, including Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, Acting Governor of West Java Bey Triadi Machmudin, and Acting Mayor of Bandung Bambang Tirtoyuliyono.
The Leuwipanjang Terminal underwent revitalization at a cost of approximately Rp80 billion (around US$5 million) and commenced operations in 2022. Meanwhile, the Banjar Terminal, completed in April 2023, played a crucial role in serving passengers during the 2023 Eid al-Fitr homecoming season.
The Leuwipanjang inauguration ceremony concluded with the distribution of commemorative t-shirts and books to the gathered crowd at the entrance gate of the terminal, symbolizing a momentous occasion for the local community.
Following the terminal inaugurations, President Jokowi proceeded to Soreang, Bandung District, to participate in a gathering with members of the Prosperous Family Economy (Mekaar) Program, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to holistic development and community engagement.