To support the annual Perahu Bidar event to be held in Palembang on 29-31 August 2024, the South Sumatra Light Railway Management Agency (BPKARSS) has officially announced a policy of free LRT tickets during the event. This initiative aims to make it easier for the public to witness and participate in the festivities of the traditional event while encouraging the use of greener public transport.

The Perahu Bidar event is one of Palembang's long-standing traditions and has always been a magnet for locals and tourists from outside the region. Held on the banks of the Musi River, the event has always been full of culture, competition, and entertainment, attracting thousands of spectators every year. With the free LRT service, it is expected that the public will have easier access to the venue without having to worry about travel costs.

This South Sumatra LRT policy is not only aimed at facilitating access to the Perahu Bidar venue, but also as a form of concrete support for the preservation of local culture and tourism. The South Sumatra LRT Board recognises the importance of this event to the people of South Sumatra, particularly Palembang, and wants to help increase community participation.

We are very proud to be part of a major event like Perahu Bidar. By freeing up LRT services during the event, we hope to make a real contribution to the smooth mobility of citizens while promoting the use of clean, efficient, and environmentally friendly public transport,' said BPKARSS head Rode Paulus.

This initiative is also seen as very positive in terms of reducing congestion in the city centre of Palembang. With so many visitors coming to the Perahu Bidar event, the use of public transport such as the LRT is seen as an effective solution to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road and keep traffic flowing smoothly during the event.

The South Sumatra LRT, which connects several key points in Palembang, is the ideal means of transport for people who want to watch the Perahu Bidar event. With a strategic route and stations scattered in different areas of the city, citizens can easily reach the venue, which is being held around the Musi River. Some of the stations close to the venue include Ampera and Polresta stations.

The announcement of the free LRT service was received with great enthusiasm by the people of Palembang and the surrounding areas. Many residents felt helped by the initiative, especially those who usually use private cars or conventional public transport. Using the LRT makes travel faster and more convenient, free from the traffic jams that often occur during major events such as Perahu Bidar.

This is really a good move by South Sumatra LRT. With free tickets, we can get to the venue more easily without worrying about transportation costs. Besides, travelling by LRT is more comfortable and faster,' said Ahmad Bukhari, a Palembang resident who plans to attend the event with his family.

Travelers from outside the region also benefit from the free service. Many of them are interested in trying the LRT as one of the modern attractions in the city of Palembang while enjoying the traditional atmosphere of the Bidar Boat event.