Since the launch of the South Sumatra Light Rail Transit (LRT) in 2018, this rail-based transport service has continued to be the focus of public attention. In addition to its benefits in facilitating community mobility, the South Sumatra LRT is also increasingly recognised for its commitment to supporting transparency and accountability of information services. This is evidenced by the high number of public information requests received by South Sumatra LRT up to October 2024, with a total of 13 official requests.

Based on reports, the incoming information requests come from various groups, ranging from students, researchers, and educational institutions, who are interested in learning more about the operations, environmental impact, and technical and economic aspects of this rail-based transport. This high level of interest from the academic world shows that the South Sumatra LRT is not only a means of public transport but also a relevant object of study for various disciplines.

Of the 13 requests received, the majority were for the purpose of preparing students' final assignments, such as theses, dissertations, and master's theses. This shows the high interest in South Sumatra LRT as scientific study material. The issues raised in these academic researches cover various aspects, ranging from operational management, budget management, and passenger safety to environmental and social impacts caused by the existence of LRT.

For example, Sarah Putri Utami, a student at Universitas Gadjah Mada, researched the social inclusion status of people using mass transport like the South Sumatra LRT. She asked for data on occupancy and passenger movements, both daily and weekly. From there, we can see how the role of the LRT in achieving social inclusiveness in the use of public transport," she said.

In addition, several Masters and PhD students also requested more in-depth information on the financial aspects of the South Sumatra LRT, such as the operating budget, funding sources, and financial sustainability strategies implemented by management. They are interested in examining how LRT Sumsel is able to survive amidst the economic challenges faced by many public transport operators in Indonesia.

LRT Sumsel's management has stated that the high demand for information is clear evidence of their commitment to the principles of transparency and accountability in the delivery of public services. In the era of public information disclosure, every government institution and state-owned enterprise (SOE) has the responsibility to provide access to information to the general public in accordance with the provisions of the Public Information Disclosure Law No. 14/2008.

As a public transport service provider, South Sumatra LRT is always open to requests for information from the public, including academics who need data for research purposes. We believe that transparency is the key to building public trust in South Sumatra LRT,' said Haris Farizi, Head of Finance and General Subdivision of South Sumatra Light Railway Management Centre.

Management also stated on several occasions that they have clear procedures for responding to requests for information. Each incoming request is handled quickly and accurately, ensuring that the data provided is reliable and appropriate to the requestor's needs. This procedure not only helps those requesting information but also demonstrates LRT Sumsel's commitment to operating in an accountable manner.

The implementation of the principles of transparency and accountability is part of LRT Sumsel's efforts to continuously improve the quality of its service to the community. With the development of technology and the increasing need for information in the digital age, LRT Sumsel has developed various digital platforms that make it easier for the public to access data and information related to its operations. One form of innovation is the official website and social media platforms that actively provide up-to-date information on schedules, fares and the latest policies implemented.

In addition, South Sumatra LRT is constantly striving to improve the quality of its transport services in terms of safety, comfort, and efficiency. By providing open and transparent information, the public can directly assess how LRT Sumsel is fulfilling its role as a reliable public transport provider.