Mutia Yuantisya, Jakarta – The plan voiced by Jakarta provincial government to purchase 21 electric vehicles or EVs for the city officials in 2023 has drawn controversy.

The battery-powered cars worth Rp800 million per unit were intended to be used by Acting Governor Heru Budi Hartono, Regional Secretary Joko Agus Setyono, assistants of the city administration, inspectorates, and other agencies.

"We are in the process of procuring electric cars," said Head of Jakarta Regional Asset Management Agency (BPAD) Reza Pahlevi as quoted by Tempo on Monday, February 20.

Gilbert Simanjuntak, a member of the Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) Commission B overseeing the economy from the PDIP faction, suggested the plan be reviewed.

He argued that using electric cars as official vehicles was not a solution to two of the city's important issues, congestion and pollution, and instead may increase the traffic volume.

The proper answer is massive public transportation. "The budget for buying electric cars will be better for development projects needed by the public," said Gilbert in a written statement received by Tempo on Tuesday, February 21.

Use of EV as directed by Jokowi

Secretary of the PSI faction at the Jakarta DPRD, William Aditya Sarana, appreciated the city administration's plan. By switching to electric cars, he opined, the city supported President Joko Widodo or Jokowi's vision. "Indonesia must be the leader in the industry of electric cars," he said.

The Commission A member also said the city's policy was expected to expedite the shifting process from fossil-fueled vehicles to electric ones. Thus, it would increase investment opportunities in EVs.

"Besides, electric vehicles are more environmentally friendly because they do not pollute the air. This can also reduce pollution in Jakarta," said William.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1694517/jakartas-plan-to-purchase-21-evs-for-officials-draws-controvers