JAKARTA. A top official of PT Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Jakarta has said the company is seeking financial support from the Jakarta administration for the second phase of the MRT construction in 2018.

MRT Jakarta president director William Sabandar said that according to a feasibility study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the second phase of MRT construction would cost Rp 25.1 trillion (US$1.8 billion).

The company is currently speeding up the first phase of MRT construction, which stretches from Lebak Bulus in South Jakarta to the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle in Central Jakarta. 

"We are also preparing for the second phase, the route of which will run from the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle to Kampung Bandan, North Jakarta," William said as quoted by tempo.co on Monday after attending a meeting with City Council. 

He said during the meeting the company had requested financial support to finish the MRT's first phase, approval for funding for the second phase, the establishment of an office in the Lebak Bulus train depot and support to amend bylaws No. 7/2013 on city-owned enterprises and No. 8/2013 on the establishment of PT MRT Jakarta.

"In the meantime, we are also preparing the MRT's supporting facilities and its business potential so we can ensure that its operation will be smooth," William said, adding that the company was not asking for a subsidy. (dea)

Editor: Sanny Cicilia