National Motorcycle Deemed Unnecessary, More Important Things Exist

KatadataOTO – Some time ago, there was a discussion about Indonesia having a national motorcycle. This was stated directly by President Prabowo Subianto.

This one ambitious plan immediately invited several parties to voice their opinions. Including from the Indonesian Motorcycle Industry Association (AISI).

“I don't think it's necessary yet (for Indonesia to have a national motorcycle),” said Sigit Kumala, Head of the Commercial Division of AISI, to KatadataOTO some time ago.

According to Sigit, there are several reasons why AISI expressed this opinion. For example, in Indonesia, there are already many two-wheeled vehicles with competitive prices.

Photo: KatadataOTO

Starting from automatic scooters, underbones to sport models. This gives the public many choices.

“If the products are competitive, we can also export to various countries,” Sigit said.

He further explained that the government should focus on existing domestic products. Such as those from Astra Honda Motor (AHM), Yamaha, Kawasaki, and other brands.

Then, strive to boost new motorcycle sales in the country. Because if it yields maximum results, it can bring a positive impact.

“For example, if domestic sales are good, and export sales are also good, that is already income for our country,” he added.

Sigit also added that many motorcycles from manufacturers in Indonesia have a fairly high Domestic Component Level (TKDN).

Therefore, all products sold domestically are quite affordable for consumers.

“Furthermore, spare parts production is already almost 93 percent done in the country,” Sigit emphasized.

Thus, it would be good for the government to pay more attention to Indonesia's two-wheeled vehicle industry.

For your information, as previously reported by KatadataOTO, President Prabowo Subianto is striving to advance the national automotive industry. For instance, by producing its own vehicles domestically.

“We will have our own Indonesian-made cars, our own Indonesian-made motorcycles, I have already prepared for it,” said Prabowo.

The presence of a national motorcycle is certainly awaited by many. Because the product has the potential to be sold at an affordable price.4

Photo: TrenOto

This opens up opportunities for the general public to own two-wheeled vehicles, while also having a positive impact on the Indonesian automotive industry.

Unfortunately, President Prabowo Subianto did not elaborate on the model or the launch time of the national motorcycle.

He was also reluctant to reveal the production scheme, whether it would be completely independent or a collaboration with other manufacturers.