UNAND Supports SDG 9 and SDG 11 through Railway Reactivation Dialogue for West Sumatra’s Economic Growth

Padang, February 18, 2026 — Universitas Andalas (UNAND) encouraged the reactivation of the Kayu Tanam–Padang Panjang railway line as a strategic effort to strengthen economic growth and public welfare in West Sumatra.

The issue was discussed in a Focus Group Discussion held at the Senate Meeting Room, Rectorate Building, Limau Manis Campus, on Wednesday, February 18. The forum presented Managing Director of Commercial and Business Development of PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero), Rafli Yandra, and UNAND Professor of Civil Engineering, Prof. Ir. Eng. Febrin Anas Ismail. The discussion was moderated by the Head of UNAND’s Center for Transportation Studies, Ir. Yosritzal, Ph.D.

The FGD was also attended by stakeholders from the Transportation Agency, Tourism Agency, Culture Agency, Regional Development Planning Agency, the Regional House of Representatives of West Sumatra Province, and academics. Their presence reflected the importance of cross-sector collaboration in discussing the future of railway transportation in West Sumatra.

Rafli Yandra explained that West Sumatra has a railway network that is relatively complex and complete, inherited from the Dutch and Japanese colonial periods. However, economic and political dynamics have caused some railway lines to remain active while others are no longer operating. He stated that inactive railway lines have become a challenge that requires serious efforts for reactivation and renewal so that railway transportation in West Sumatra can move forward and contribute to regional development.

UNAND Rector emphasized that, particularly for West Sumatra, railway reactivation can become an engine for economic growth and improved community welfare. However, he acknowledged that the project may not be commercially profitable in the short term. For this reason, government intervention, including the possibility of a subsidy scheme, is needed so that this strategic public-interest project can continue to move forward.

The Rector also underlined that railways are an environmentally friendly mass transportation mode that can carry many passengers at once and has globally recognized performance. He expressed confidence that with a shared vision among all stakeholders, railway lines built since the Dutch East Indies era can be revived.

Prof. Febrin Anas Ismail agreed that the reactivation of the Kayu Tanam–Padang Panjang railway line is important, especially to support the tourism and logistics sectors. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy involving resources from both local and central governments.

According to Prof. Febrin, universities can contribute by preparing a grand design, developing a timeline, and conducting in-depth studies such as feasibility studies. He also stressed that all stakeholders need to share roles so that the direction of railway development becomes more structured.

He further noted that in developed countries, railway lines have proven to provide efficiency in various aspects, including mobility, goods distribution, and the strengthening of tourism destinations. Through this FGD, UNAND reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a strategic partner for government and industry in formulating research-based policies, so that the reactivation of railway lines in West Sumatra can be carried out in a directed, sustainable, and impactful manner.

This initiative supports SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by encouraging the reactivation and modernization of railway infrastructure as part of regional development. Through research-based planning, feasibility studies, and collaboration with transportation stakeholders, UNAND contributes to strengthening resilient and sustainable infrastructure in West Sumatra.

The discussion also aligns with SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities because railway transportation can support more inclusive, efficient, and environmentally friendly mobility. The reactivation of the Kayu Tanam–Padang Panjang line is expected to improve public transportation access, support tourism connectivity, and contribute to more sustainable regional development.

Through this forum, UNAND demonstrated its role not only as an academic institution, but also as a strategic partner in shaping development policies. By bringing together government, industry, and academic stakeholders, UNAND continues to support transportation solutions that can strengthen the economy, improve mobility, and create real benefits for the people of West Sumatra.