Akas (bus company)

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PO Akas has its roots in the life of its founder, Sukarman, who was born in Madiun on October 23, 1925.^[3] From a very young age, he was exposed to the world of workshops and machines. In 1933, when he was only eight years old, Sukarman lived and worked in a workshop owned by Amat, who would later become his father-in-law.^[4][5] Although he had received formal education up to grade 1 MULO, he could not complete his education. However, his limited formal education did not prevent him from learning independently, particularly in mechanical engineering and motor vehicles, which later became a crucial foundation for his future business ventures. ^[3]

While working at Amat's workshop, Sukarman not only repaired vehicles but also began trading in scrap metal with Japanese traders. Through these interactions, he developed a deeper understanding of various car engine components. This experience proved invaluable when the world situation changed with the outbreak of World War II in 1939, prompting many Japanese traders to return to their homeland. At that time, an acquaintance and competitor named Em Kono advised Sukarman to stop relying on his in-laws and start running his own business, advice that would later prove decisive for his life.^[6]

During the Japanese occupation, the workshop where Sukarman worked was confiscated. However, thanks to Em Kono's role, the workshop was saved. Management of the workshop was then transferred directly from Amat to Sukarman. This transition marked the beginning of Sukarman's independence as a business manager. He began to build confidence as a mechanic and entrepreneur, armed with technical experience, a network of contacts, and a strong work ethic, despite the highly unstable social and economic conditions at the time. ^[6]

After Indonesia's independence, Sukarman worked as a civilian employee at the Military Police Center of the Indonesian National Armed Forces from 1945 to 1949. He was assigned to the vehicle section and participated in guerrilla warfare in the Malang Regency area. This experience further honed his skills in handling vehicles in emergency situations. At the same time, he witnessed firsthand the difficulties of land transportation in post-war Indonesia, especially for transporting agricultural products and community needs. This awareness motivated him to establish a transportation service business. ^[6]

After the transfer of sovereignty in 1949, Sukarman had sufficient capital to start a new business, using a workshop inherited from his father-in-law and an additional bank loan. He assembled a truck (prahoto) himself from old cars and used spare parts. By 1951, he owned six trucks and drove them himself. Seeing the difficulties people often faced in transporting sick people to the city, Sukarman initiated the idea of ​​establishing a bus company. One of his trucks was modified with a tarpaulin to protect passengers from the heat and rain, and powered by a rebuilt Chevrolet engine. ^[6]

In 1952, Sukarman officially founded a bus company named Akas.^[6] The first generation of the Akas group involved Amat as a parent, Sukarman as a son-in-law, and Ali as Amat's biological son. Legally, Akas is in the form of a limited partnership and is confirmed through the deed of notary Sie Kwan Ho No. 11 dated March 23, 1956.^[4][7] Among Indonesian bus enthusiasts, Akas is often believed to be an acronym of Amat Karman Ali Sekeluarga. However, according to Sukarman, "akas" is not an acronym, but rather a word meaning active, skilled, enthusiastic, and responsive, values ​​he believes are key to the company's progress. ^[6]

Akas's development was rapid. By 1962, the company had approximately 60 buses and 15 trucks.^[6] After Amat's death in 1972, the company's structure underwent internal changes without changing the deed of establishment or route permits. Sukarman remained as director, with Hartoyo as deputy director, and several passive family allies. In 1974, Sukarman divided Akas into four operational divisions and one new company, each managed by his children and extended family members, further decentralizing the company's management.^[4]

The four divisions were Akas I (led by Harsono), Akas II (led by Hartoyo Tingok), Akas III (led by Ali bin Amat), and Akas IV (led by Edy Haryadi), each with varying fleet sizes,^[8], and PT Mila Sejahtera as a new entity. By 1994, Akas II was the largest division with hundreds of buses, followed by other divisions. Mila Sejahtera also managed dozens of buses, trucks, and a hotel business. Beyond the transportation business, Sukarman expanded into hotels, agriculture, sports, and education through the Amat Karman Foundation, which manages Wijaya Putra University in Surabaya. This demonstrates that Akas is not just a bus company, but part of a broader family business ecosystem.

Entering the final years of the founder's leadership, the company faced various changes. Muliati's death in 1985 was followed by the resignation of Ali bin Amat from Akas III, which was then managed by her son, Rudi Yahyanto. Following the deaths of Hartoyo Tingok in 2000 and Sukarman in 2001, a new notary deed was issued granting Edy Haryadi the authority to manage the company's legal affairs. Despite internal dynamics, Akas is still recognized as one of the pioneers of bus transportation in Indonesia, the peak of which was marked by a loyalty award for 30 years of service from the Ministry of Transportation of the Republic of Indonesia on March 16, 2011.^[4][9]

Since 1974, Sukarman has divided Akas into four divisions and one new company. This division was carried out so that each of Sukarman and Ali bin Amat's children could receive inheritance fairly. All bus companies within the Akas group use the brand name "Akas," with an additional word to distinguish the owners, as all POs under the Akas group have independent and stand-alone management, although still managed by the Amat and Sukarman families. The four divisions and one bus company are as follows: ^[8]

• Akas I: managed by his eldest son, Harsono, and operated 50 buses as of 1994.

• Akas II: managed by his second son, Hartoyo Tingok, and operated 750 buses as of 1994. Akas II is the most diversified business group, encompassing various brands and companies. Tingok started his business by operating 42 buses that were given to him after his marriage. ^[10] This division is divided into several bus companies and operates in two segments, namely intercity bus (within the province and between provinces) and tour bus:
  • Akas NNR (abbreviation of Nike-Nola-Roy (Nike-Nola-Roy): split into three companies:^[10]
    • PT Indonesia Abadi Akas N1 (managing the Akas N1 and Indonesia Abadi brands).^[11]
    • PT Akas Kisara Barokah and PT Akas Amat Abadi (both managing the Akas NR brand). ^[11]
  • Akas Asri: split into four companies:
    • PT Gading Akas Asri, PT Terry Akas Asri, and PT Danaf Transportasi Abadi (all three managing the Akas Asri brand). ^[11]
    • PT Andry Febiola Transportasi (managing the Akas Aurora/Akas AAA brand). ^[12]
  • PT Hartria Akas Green Sejahtera (Akas Green, Yuangga, Estu Jaya)^[10][11]
  • Harapan Kita (jointly managed by Akas N1 and NR).^[10][11]
  • Defunct brands: Karmina Rizki, Jember Indah Asri, and Tingok

• Akas III: Managed by Ali bin Amat and his son, Rudi Yahyanto, and operated 110 buses as of 1994.

• Akas IV: Managed by Edy Haryadi, and operated 200 buses as of 1994.

• PT Mila Sejahtera (Supporting Smooth Transportation in Indonesia): Managed 120 buses and 25 trucks as of 1994.

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Since being divided into four divisions and a separate PO named Mila Sejahtera, each bus company within the Akas group has had varying chassis and bodywork preferences, depending on the type of service offered and its comfort level. This diversity is evident in the fleet they operate, ranging from intercity and interprovincial buses (AKAP), tourist buses, to premium services with modern features. In the AKAP and AKDP fleet sectors, several Akas divisions rely on chassis from Japanese manufacturers such as Hino and also European brands such as Mercedes-Benz. The use of Hino chassis, especially the RM 280 type on Akas NR, or Hino AK 215 on Mila Sejahtera, is quite dominant in the new fleet because it is known to have strong engine performance, good fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance.^[13][14] On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz OF 1623 chassis adopted by Akas IV is also an important choice, especially for fleets that prioritize comfort and driving stability on the AKDP East Java economy class route. This combination shows that the Akas group is not fixated on one brand, but is flexible in choosing the best technology according to operational needs.^[15]

In terms of bodywork, Akas and a number of other POs in East Java in the 1960s to 1990s relied heavily on bus bodies produced by Malindo^[16] and Rahayu Santosa. Currently, the Akas group partners with well-known Indonesian bodywork companies such as Adi Putro, Laksana, and Karoseri Tentrem. The Laksana bus bodywork company, for example, presents the Legacy SR-3 Neo HD Panorama model used in the tourism fleet of Akas NR, or the Discovery DC-3 on Akas IV, offering a modern design with a spacious cabin and enhanced comfort features. In addition, the latest single-glass variant also shows the adoption of global design trends with a large windshield display that provides better visibility for bus driver as well as a more futuristic aesthetic.^[17][18] Meanwhile, from Adi Putro, several children and grandchildren of Akas II businesses such as Akas NR, Akas Aurora, and Akas Asri, use Jetbus bodies from various generations; the latest is Jetbus5.^[19][20][21] Meanwhile In addition, the bus bodywork company Karoseri Tentrem is a regular customer of various divisions, subsidiaries, and subsidiaries of the Akas group. Meanwhile, Akas IV (including Akas Mila Sejahtera and Mila Sejahtera) has a medium bus bodywork with the Max HDD and Max Facelift brands. Tentrem products are known for their sturdy body structure and neat interior finishing, making them suitable for AKAP and AKDP services with long journeys. In fact, several new fleets from Tentrem used by Akas Mila Sejahtera have been equipped with modern features such as ergonomic seats, entertainment systems, and more optimal air conditioning.^[15][22]

Other children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren within the Akas group, such as Akas Aurora, have also introduced fleet updates to meet the growing needs of public services. The presence of new fleets on strategic routes such as Jember Regency–Jakarta demonstrates the company's commitment to improving service quality while strengthening its competitiveness in the land transportation market. These updates encompass not only technical aspects such as the engine and bodywork, but also improvements to passenger amenities to provide a more comfortable and safe travel experience.^[21]

Interestingly, Mila Sejahtera also presents a different approach by launching buses with a "vintage" paint scheme. This concept provides a classic feel reminiscent of the Akas, Mila Sejahtera, and Indonesia Abadi buses of the 1980s, while still incorporating modern technology. The bus uses a Max Facelift body on a Hino AK 240 chassis. This step demonstrates that innovation in the transportation industry doesn't always have to be futuristic, but can also leverage nostalgia as a unique attraction for passengers.^[23]

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Since its inception, the Akas business group has long made intercity bus within the province (AKDP) in East Java its main business line, both economy class and limited fast (Patas Jatim). The Akas business group serves routes especially from and to the Tapal kuda (Horseshoe) area region and the southern route of East Java. This group is known as one of the legendary operators that once dominated "hot" routes with very tough competition, such as Surabaya–Trenggalek, Malang–Probolinggo, to the route to Madura. The existence of the Akas fleet is not only about providing transportation, but also forming a mobility ecosystem for the lower middle class who are highly dependent on AKDP buses as their primary means of daily and medium-distance travel.^[24][25]

As time goes by, the Akas business group continues to maintain its presence amidst competition with new operators offering modern fleets. One prominent characteristic is the use of relatively old but still roadworthy buses, such as those used by Akas Mila Sejahtera. This strategy was chosen for a reason, but rather to maintain Operational efficiency and maintain affordable fares for passengers. Amidst the transportation modernization trend, this decision has become a unique identity that differentiates Akas from competitors who are more aggressive in fleet renewal.^[26]

Some Akas business units have chosen not to operate buses as their mainstay. Akas I, legally known as PT Akas Turangga Sejati, is led by Sukarman's eldest son, Harsono. He started his business by operating 40 buses, which were given to him upon his marriage. According to the statement of the mechanic from Akas I, Harsono has a tendency to like experimentation and "tune-up" on his bus units instead of developing them. ^[27] Meanwhile, "Akas III", with the legal name "PT Anggun Krida Abadi", serves the AKDP route without carrying the Akas brand, but with the "Anggun" brand Krida, Kurnia Jaya, and Kenongo Indah, and opened the Surabaya–Banyuwangi route. ^[28]

In its operations, Akas and its business units such as Akas Mila Sejahtera, Akas Asri, Akas Green, Akas N1, Akas II NR, and Akas III continue to serve busy routes with high departure frequencies. Routes such as Malang City–Probolinggo Regency and Surabaya City–Malang City are examples of routes with stable demand that continue to be served consistently. The relatively flexible departure schedule and availability of fleets throughout the day are distinct advantages, especially for workers and students who need cheap and easily accessible transportation. In addition, the waiting system that is still used also allows buses to accommodate maximum passengers along the route.^[25][29][30]

However, the challenges faced by the Akas group's AKDP bus services are not trivial. The Covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia has had a significant impact on operations, including a decline in passenger numbers and regional quarantines, leading to financial difficulties. In fact, several bus operators in the Probolinggo area and surrounding areas have reportedly been unable to provide holiday allowances to employees due to low income. This demonstrates how vulnerable the land transportation sector is to mobility policies and the economic conditions of the community. ^[31]

In addition to external factors, fare policy is also a crucial issue for the sustainability of AKDP services. After years of no increases, the idea of ​​adjusting fares emerged to accommodate rising operational costs, such as fuel prices in Indonesia and vehicle maintenance. For operators like Akas, maintaining a balance between low fares and business continuity is a major challenge. On the one hand, fare increases can burden passengers, but on the other hand, they are essential to maintaining service quality.^[30]

The Akas business group is known to compete with almost all companies currently still actively serving AKDP in East Java. ^[29] In the future, the future of AKDP bus services from the Akas business group will be largely determined by the ability to adapt to changing times. According to Zendy Hardianto, the head of Akas Mila Sejahtera, fleet modernization, increasing comfort, and integration with other transportation systems are steps that may need to be considered. However, Akas's main strengths remain its extensive route network, long experience, and closeness to loyal market segments. With the right strategy, this service still has a great opportunity to survive and become the backbone of land transportation in East Java.^[26]

Since the split of Akas Asri, the Akas group's intercity and interprovincial (AKAP) buses have been served by two bus companies: Mila Sejahtera and Akas Aurora (Akas AAA). The AKAP routes of PT Andry Febiola Transportasi (Akas Aurora) continue to expand, particularly with a focus on connectivity between East Java and Jakarta. The route that is the backbone of its business is Jember Regency–DKI Jakarta, which is served regularly with an evening departure schedule and a choice of executive and platinum classes. This route is the backbone of operations because it connects the East Java 'Horseshoe' area with the capital's buffer zone, and tickets are quite popular with prices ranging from hundreds of thousands of rupiah depending on the facilities and travel season.^[32]

In addition to the main routes, Akas Aurora also has an economy class route Yogyakarta–Banyuwangi and a route based on Pasuruan as an important point in East Java. From this city, the company opens services to Tangerang and Bogor, which shows expansion to the wider Jabodetabek area, not only focused on Jakarta alone. Departures from Pasuruan generally take place at night, allowing long-distance travel to be covered efficiently by utilizing the Trans-Java toll road. These routes strengthen Pasuruan's position as a new hub, while expanding travel options for passengers from the Probolinggo, Malang, and surrounding areas.^[33][34][35]

Meanwhile, Mila Sejahtera focuses on the main corridor of Banyuwangi–Yogyakarta, which is one of the important land routes in southern Java. This route generally starts from district capital, then passes through Jajag, Banyuwangi, Jember, Lumajang, to Probolinggo before entering the Central Java region such as Surakarta and ending in Yogyakarta. In its operation, this bus utilizes the Mojosari bypass route and the Trans-Java Toll Road to speed up travel time, so that a trip of approximately 600 km (370 mi) can be done more efficiently without too many long stops on the way.^[36]

In addition to the main route, Mila Sejahtera is also known for its high departure frequency, even reaching seven trips a day from each direction. This varied schedule includes departures from noon to night, both from Banyuwangi and from Yogyakarta, thus providing high flexibility for passengers. The fare is relatively affordable for economy class AC, ranging from around Rp150,000 to Rp200,000 depending on the period and service, making it a popular choice for people who want to travel long distances at a low cost but still comfortably.^[36][37]

The development of the Mila Sejahtera route also demonstrates an adaptation to the need for intercity mobility without transit, with a direct trip concept connecting the Horseshoe (area) region with the center of activity in Yogyakarta. Other advantages include relatively fast operational characteristics due to minimal waiting times, as well as the support of a continuously updated air-conditioned economy bus fleet. Overall, this route strengthens inter-provincial connectivity on the southern route while also providing a competitive alternative for land transportation and competing fairly with other modes of transportation, including trains.^[36]