The Indonesian railway industry has made a significant milestone in the history of its operations with the successful transition of onboard mechanical technician roles (OBMs) to Indonesian human resources (HR). KCIC’s General Manager of Corporate Secretary, Eva Chairunisa, stated that the technicians have obtained certification from the Directorate General of Railways as a primary requirement to receive a Certificate of Competency.
The Onboard Mechanic Training Program
The Onboard Mechanic training program, conducted from late February 2023 to March 2025, utilized a strict, tiered approach to ensure participants gained the necessary technical capabilities. The program included high-speed railway theoretical training, technical training from the high-speed train manufacturers, and safety regulation training at Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU) in China. Training participants consisted of associate degree (D3) graduates specializing in transportation and railways from institutions like the Land Transportation Polytechnic (STTD) and the Indonesian Railway Polytechnic (PPI) in Madiun. Some participants were experienced personnel seconded from Kereta Commuter Indonesia (KCI).
Training Process
The training process for Onboard Mechanics was designed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to independently support Whoosh’s operations. The program was divided into several phases:
- High-Speed Railway theoretical training
- Technical training from the high-speed train manufacturers
- Safety regulation training at Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU) in China
After completing theoretical training, trainees underwent On-the-Job Training as Depot Mechanics for Level 1 and Level 2 maintenance before moving on to more specialized training for direct assignment as onboard technicians alongside experts from China Railway Beijing.
Duties and Responsibilities
The duties of Onboard Mechanics are complex and require exceptional attention to detail. They are responsible for monitoring the technical conditions of the Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) during journeys, checking operational systems via information panels, and inspecting technical components such as bogies, air conditioning systems, temperature control systems, and automatic door mechanisms. OBMs also conduct technical inspections at departure stations, turnaround stations, and final destinations. Additionally, they operate the Passenger Information System (PIS), manage interior equipment, and ensure all facilities and spare parts are in optimal condition.
Importance of Onboard Mechanics
“Onboard Mechanics also operate the Passenger Information System (PIS), manage interior equipment, and ensure all facilities and spare parts are in optimal condition,” Chairunisa remarked. They work closely with Train Conductors to handle non-technical service issues and prepare daily operational reports. Their role is critical to the success of each Whoosh trip. With the successful development of a 100 percent Indonesian OBM team, KCIC emphasized that mastery of high-speed railway technology in Indonesia is no longer just a dream. It marks a real step towards independence and sustainable operations of the country’s high-speed rail system.
Future Prospects
The successful transition of the Onboard Mechanical technician role to Indonesian human resources is a significant milestone in the history of Indonesia’s railway industry. The development of a 100 percent Indonesian OBM team is expected to boost the country’s railway industry and enhance its global competitiveness. Furthermore, the success of the Onboard Mechanic training program demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting the development of a skilled workforce in the railway sector.
news is a contributor at IronGuts. We are committed to providing well-researched, accurate, and valuable content to our readers.
