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The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail (HSR) project, a key initiative under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), serves as a successful model demonstrating the principles of joint consultation, joint development, and shared results, collectively known as the ‘Three Commons’. This research, conducted by the Indonesia-China Partnership Studies (INCHIPS) in collaboration with and the University of International Business and Economics – Institute for Strategic Studies (China), under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Wang Tiedong, highlights the impact of this collaborative framework. The project, carried out from April to August 2024, has fostered a deeper partnership between Indonesia and China, setting a standard for future international cooperation efforts under the BRI.
The principle of joint consultation is exemplified in the continuous dialogue and partnership between Indonesia and China, embodied in the establishment of PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC). This joint venture ensures equal participation in decision-making processes, promoting transparency and mutual respect. The open communication channels facilitated through joint consultation have proven effective in overcoming challenges and aligning project goals with the interests of both nations.
The joint development principle is showcased through the transfer of technology and expertise from Chinese companies to Indonesian engineers and workers. This collaboration has led to capacity building and skill development, strengthening Indonesia’s long-term technological and industrial capabilities. The project not only advances the immediate goals of infrastructure development but also supports Indonesia’s broader ambitions for economic transformation by fostering local innovation and expertise.
The shared results of the Jakarta-Bandung HSR project highlight its impact on regional economic growth, increased connectivity, and enhanced infrastructure. The successful completion of this project has boosted passenger numbers and facilitated economic activities in the regions it serves, illustrating the tangible benefits of international collaboration. The shared successes also create a framework for learning and adaptation, ensuring that the project’s achievements contribute to sustainable growth.
To further strengthen the application of the ‘Three Commons’ principles in the Jakarta-Bandung HSR project and other BRI initiatives, several strategies are recommended. Enhanced dialogue mechanisms can facilitate continuous stakeholder engagement, while capacity-building initiatives can ensure skill transfer to local workers. Promoting inclusive economic benefits by prioritizing local suppliers and creating jobs in connected regions is crucial for widespread development. Transparent governance frameworks will also build trust and accountability, ensuring that project outcomes are monitored and shared openly.
Strategic policy recommendations focus on enhancing connectivity and fostering industrial growth to maximize the economic impact of the Jakarta-Bandung HSR. Prioritizing transit-oriented development (TOD) around HSR stations, promoting SME growth, and enhancing labor mobility are key strategies to amplify the project’s benefits. These initiatives will not only drive economic prosperity in the Bandung and Jakarta regions but also ensure a holistic integration of infrastructure and urban development. The Jakarta-Bandung HSR offers valuable lessons for future BRI projects, emphasizing the importance of joint consultation, technology transfer, and shared results. By adopting these principles, other initiatives can achieve more effective and sustainable international cooperation, promoting inclusive growth and mutual prosperity on a global scale.
