access_time August 19 2026 11:00 AM remove_red_eye 60
Reported by Aldi Geri Lumban Tobing | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata
The Jakarta Transportation Agency’s free shuttle service for students with disabilities has just been recognized as one of the top 10 finalists in the 2026 Jakarta Innovation Award (JIA).
It is about ensuring that students with disabilities have safe and comfortable mobility access
Known as SAPA DISA, this disability-friendly school bus service is more than just transportation—it’s a commitment to providing safe, accessible, and cost-free mobility for students who need it most.
The system uses a personalized point-to-point approach: students are picked up right from their doorstep (or a location chosen by their parents) and driven straight to school. Once the school day is over, the bus is there to bring them safely back home. It is a game-changer for families and a proud moment for Jakarta’s urban innovation.
The Launch of 32 Disability-Friendly School Buses Appreciated
This service bridges the gap for students living in distant areas, ensuring they arrive at school promptly and fully prepared to engage in their studies.
Currently, the program operates as a sustainable initiative, serving nine Special Education Schools (SLB) and supporting an average of 150 students every day.
Jakarta Transportation Agency Head, Budi Awaluddin stated that SAPA DISA’s inclusion in the JIA 2026 top 10 serves as both a prestigious recognition and a powerful motivation for the Transportation Agency to further enhance the quality of transit services for people with disabilities.
“SAPA DISA was born out of the community’s needs. It’s not merely about providing buses; it is about ensuring that students with disabilities have safe and comfortable mobility access to pursue their education,” he expressed, Wednesday (8/19).
The SAPA DISA fleet is built for total inclusivity, boasting high-tech features such as power lifts, wheelchair tie-down systems, tactile flooring, and safety handrails. To ensure a premium and secure experience, each bus is fully loaded with CCTV, GPS, AC, emergency alerts, and a clear audio-visual announcement system.
This program thrives on a strong spirit of collaboration, bringing together the city’s Transportation, Education, and Social agencies, alongside special education institutions, disability communities, and dedicated parents.
“The real-world impact on students and their families is the driving force behind the continued success and sustainability of this initiative,” he noted.
Budi explained that SAPA DISA’s placement in the JIA 2026 top 10 is a testament to the success of public service innovations that deliver direct and lasting benefits to the community.
He went on to say that this service is a cornerstone of the Jakarta government’s commitment to fostering a truly inclusive transportation network, moving toward a city defined by equality and justice for every child.
“We’re determined to ensure that no child is left behind in their pursuit of education simply because of a lack of accessible transportation,” he continued.
The tangible success of the program is best reflected in the testimonials of its users. Azka, a student at SLB Pembina Tingkat Nasional, noted that the service provides a much more pleasant travel experience while promoting punctuality.
“I really enjoy it. The officers are friendly, and it’s fun to go to school with my friends. Most importantly, I’m not late anymore,” he admitted.
From a parental perspective, the innovation offers both logistical and financial relief. Roro Shanti, a parent of a student at SLB D-D1 YPAC Jakarta, emphasized that the service provides security, knowing her child’s specific needs are met by a regular and professional transit system.
“Using this free school bus has allowed me to significantly cut down on our monthly transportation budget,” she added, highlighting the economic benefits of the initiative.