It has recently been confirmed that Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) has given the green light for Uber operations in the Indonesian capital.
With the city’s rail-based public transportation system yet to complete, this is welcoming news to the city with one of the highest population densities in Asia.
Governor Ahok also acknowledged the benefits of tech app transportation in a meeting with the Provincial heads earlier this week.
‘’Ride sharing, like Uber, has received positive and tremendous response from users because of its ability to provide consumers with those three pivotal factors – safe, reliable and affordable means of transportation – through the technology platform’’ said the Jakarta governor.
He also went on to welcome increased transport options and acknowledges that fair competition among transportation companies will eventually benefit consumers.
Mike Brown, Uber's manager for the Asia-Pacific region has hailed this legislation and encourages other nations to follow suit.
“[Governor Ahok] is setting an outstanding example to other countries in the region that taking a collaborative and forward thinking approach is important and drives cities to a smarter future," stated Mike Brown.
He also assured the public that Uber will work closely with the Governor’s office to ensure all legal requirements are met.
The ride sharing service has reached quite a milestone, given that in August 2014, Governor Ahok ordered a ban on Uber’s service over the company’s alleged failure to hold necessary permits and pay taxes.
This new legislation is evident of remarkable progress within 16 months.
Mr Brown acknowledges that the company has 'made some mistakes in the past'. However he assured full compliance to requirements and has set clear goals of providing reliable transportation and economic opportunities for Indonesians.
