Jakarta’s newest mode of transportation, the MRT, not only helps in mobility – it has also drawn more visitors to the city’s art venues.  

Ever since the development of the MRT finished in March, commuters have taken a liking to Basoeki Abdullah Museum, located in Cilandak, South Jakarta, near the Fatmawati MRT station.

“We have definitely experienced a surge of visitors," Basoeki Abdullah Museum head Maeva Salmah said as cited by Antara news agency on Thursday. “For instance, [the museum went] from 500 visitors to 700 visitors, and [the numbers are] still increasing.”

The museum was previously added to the Fatmawati MRT station map, listed as a nearby tourist destination.

Two murals of the late maestro painter Basoeki Abdullah can be seen on the station’s pillars, which also point visitors in the direction of the museum on Jl. Keuangan Raya No.19.

The building, only a five-minute walk from the Fatmawati station, holds a collection of Basoeki’s paintings, including his portrait of Indonesia’s first president Soekarno and other political figures.

During the MRT construction, the Fatmawati area in South Jakarta experienced economic difficulties due to road damages and sidewalk closures. 

However, commuters today can stop uninterrupted at nearby food stalls in the area.

“A lot of new businesses have opened up since the station was opened,” said Arif, owner of a restaurant close to the station. (eyc)