South Sumatra, Indonesia, Sees Increased Demand in Train Services Following Record Train Ticket Sales for Chinese New Year: What New Updates You Need to Know

Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Regional Division III Palembang has reported a significant increase in ticket sales for the upcoming Chinese New Year holiday period. With a total of 15,793 tickets sold, these tickets are valid from February 13 to 18, 2026, and reflect the high demand for train services in South Sumatra and surrounding areas during this festive period.

There is a growing preference for train travel among the public, which is evident from the impressive ticket sales. The demand for travel during peak holiday seasons, including air and car travel, has contributed to the high demand for trains.

Public Trusts Trains for Ease of Travel

The high ticket sales indicate that passengers continue to trust trains as a safe, reliable, and convenient mode of travel. Peak travel periods, such as the Chinese New Year, often result in increased traffic and congestion in other modes of transport, leading to dissatisfaction with car and air travel. This has driven many travelers to opt for train services, especially subsidized economy-class services such as those provided on the Bukit Serelo and Rajabasa routes, which have reported an occupancy rate of more than 100%.

Record Productivity on Bukit Serelo and Rajabasa Routes

The Bukit Serelo service, which operates between Kertapati and Lubuk Linggau, recorded an impressive 116% occupancy rate, indicating the high demand for this round-trip service. Similarly, the Rajabasa service, which travels between Kertapati and Tanjungkarang, reported a 115% occupancy rate. Both services are offered under the public service obligation (PSO) concept, meaning they are made available to the public at subsidized fares.

These high occupancy rates are a testament to the fact that, even during peak travel periods, train travel remains the preferred choice due to its safety, comfort, and punctuality. PT Kereta Api Indonesia has been able to meet the high demand with reliable services, ensuring a positive travel experience for passengers.

Sindang Marga Train Provides Different Options for Travelers

Although Bukit Serelo and Rajabasa trains have reached full capacity, KAI Divre III Palembang has pointed to the Sindang Marga trains as an alternative option for travelers. The Sindang Marga trains, which operate between Kertapati and Lubuk Linggau, currently have 47% of their tickets sold in both business and executive classes, making them an ideal option for passengers who still wish to travel but have not secured tickets for the busier routes.

KAI Divre III Palembang Comments on Ticket Fraud and Shortage

Given the high demand for tickets, KAI Divre III Palembang has urged travelers to purchase their tickets in advance to avoid potential issues. Customers are strongly encouraged to book tickets through official KAI channels, such as the Access by KAI app or the official KAI website, to minimize the risk of ticket fraud and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Travelers still hoping to secure tickets for the Chinese New Year period are advised to consider booking Sindang Marga services, which offer an opportunity to travel without the stress of availability concerns. With the holiday period approaching rapidly, early reservations are encouraged to secure the routes and times that best suit travel plans.

KAI Strives to Enable Travel for All Customers

PT Kereta Api Indonesia is committed to making train travel accessible to everyone, even during peak seasons like Chinese New Year. The company provides a variety of options, including budget-friendly economy-class services and higher-priced business-class services, to cater to a wide range of passengers.

The Bukit Serelo and Rajabasa services are part of KAI’s efforts to offer affordable transportation to the public. By offering these services under the PSO concept, KAI ensures that train travel remains affordable for those seeking a safe and comfortable journey. The introduction of Sindang Marga services further reflects KAI’s ongoing efforts to meet the transportation needs of the community.

Conclusion

As South Sumatra prepares for a busy travel season during the 2026 Chinese New Year, PT Kereta Api Indonesia has already recorded impressive ticket sales. With Bukit Serelo and Rajabasa routes fully booked, travelers are encouraged to consider Sindang Marga as an alternative travel option. To avoid ticket fraud and ensure a seamless travel experience, passengers are advised to purchase tickets through official KAI channels and make their reservations as soon as possible.

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How Indonesia’s KAI Palembang Sells Over 15,000 Tickets for Chinese New Year, Highlighting the Growing Demand for Train Travel

As the 2026 Chinese New Year approaches, PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Regional Division III Palembang has reported a significant surge in train ticket sales, highlighting the continued preference for rail travel in South Sumatra and surrounding regions. On February 8, 2026, KAI Palembang announced that 15,793 tickets had been sold for the travel period spanning from February 13 to 18, 2026, reflecting robust demand during the long holiday season.

Aida Suryanti, the Public Relations Manager of KAI Regional Division III Palembang, shared that these numbers demonstrate the public’s strong interest in train services for the festive period. “The demand for train services during the Chinese New Year holiday has been notably high, as seen in the substantial ticket sales and occupancy rates on popular routes,” Aida said.

High Occupancy Rates on Key Routes

Several trains recorded impressive occupancy rates, with some routes exceeding full capacity. The Bukit Serelo train, which travels from Kertapati to Lubuk Linggau and back, saw ticket sales surpassing 100%, with occupancy reaching 116%. Similarly, the Rajabasa train, which operates from Kertapati to Tanjungkarang, experienced a high occupancy rate of 115%.

These figures underscore the continuing popularity of train travel, particularly during peak holiday periods like Chinese New Year. The high occupancy rates reflect the fact that trains remain a preferred mode of transport due to their safety, comfort, and punctuality. The trains provide a convenient and reliable option for travelers, especially when compared to other modes of transport.

Other Travel Options Still Available

While the demand for the Bukit Serelo and Rajabasa trains is clear, there are still other alternatives for those who have yet to secure tickets. The Sindang Marga train, running between Kertapati and Lubuk Linggau, still has plenty of available seats for travelers. Currently, ticket sales for the Sindang Marga train stand at around 47%, for both executive and business classes, indicating that there are still options available for passengers looking to travel during the holiday period.

KAI Palembang urges travelers who have not yet booked their tickets to consider the Sindang Marga train as an alternative, as it offers plenty of availability. With the Chinese New Year fast approaching, those seeking to avoid overcrowded trains should act quickly to secure their preferred travel options.

A Strong Preference for Train Travel

The high ticket sales and occupancy rates for the Chinese New Year holiday period confirm that train travel continues to be a popular choice among Indonesians. In a country where transportation options are varied, trains are still viewed as a reliable and comfortable means of travel. The consistency of train schedules, affordability, and ability to bypass road traffic make them an attractive option for both short and long-distance journeys, particularly during peak holiday seasons.

The announcement also highlights the significant role that PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) plays in facilitating travel across the country, particularly during peak times like Chinese New Year. The KAI Palembang Division continues to cater to the needs of travelers, ensuring that trains remain accessible and in high demand throughout the holiday season.

Ensuring Safe and Efficient Travel

KAI Palembang has also reminded travelers to secure their tickets through official channels, such as the Access by KAI app, the official KAI website, and authorized sales partners. This ensures that passengers avoid potential issues such as ticket shortages or fraud, which can occur when using unofficial or third-party vendors. Booking tickets through official platforms also provides passengers with a secure and seamless experience, guaranteeing the legitimacy of their purchase and their travel plans.

In light of the increasing popularity of rail travel, KAI Palembang emphasizes the importance of planning ahead. By booking in advance, travelers can ensure their journey remains smooth and stress-free, with no last-minute surprises or complications.

The Role of Train Travel During Major Holidays

The Chinese New Year holiday is one of the most significant celebrations in Indonesia, and for many, it marks an important time to reunite with family and friends. As millions of people travel to their hometowns to celebrate, the transportation infrastructure must be prepared to handle the surge in demand. Trains, with their capacity and ability to serve large numbers of people efficiently, are a crucial part of Indonesia’s holiday travel system.

KAI Palembang’s ability to manage such high ticket sales and occupancy rates is a testament to the growing role that railways play in the nation’s transportation network. As the country continues to develop and expand its railway systems, train services will likely remain an integral part of the travel experience for Indonesian citizens during major holidays and beyond.

Conclusion: The Future of Train Travel in Indonesia

The strong performance of ticket sales for Chinese New Year 2026 demonstrates that train travel is more than just a transportation option—it’s a vital part of the holiday experience for many Indonesians. With affordable and efficient services, KAI Palembang continues to provide a safe and reliable way for travelers to reach their destinations during peak holiday periods.

As ticket sales continue to rise and occupancy rates exceed expectations, PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) remains committed to maintaining high standards of service and ensuring that passengers have a smooth and enjoyable journey. For travelers planning to take the train this holiday season, KAI Palembang offers a seamless and dependable solution to their travel needs, making it the go-to choice for millions of passengers in South Sumatra and beyond.

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