The Trans Metro Dewata (TMD) public bus service officially ceased operations on 1 January 2025, according to a statement posted on the service’s Instagram account.
The announcement, which surprised many Bali residents, marked the end of a service that had been a vital transportation option for residents in Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, and Tabanan (Sarbagita).
The discontinuation of TMD operations stemmed from the absence of subsidies in the 2025 state budget (APBN). Previously, the service had relied on funding from the Ministry of Transportation to remain operational.
Petition Calls for Revival of TMD
The decision to end TMD operations has triggered a public backlash. Many Bali residents who relied on the service for daily commutes expressed their dismay.
A petition on Change.org to reinstate the bus service has ever since been shared online. The TMD official Instagram also promoted the petition on its Instagram story.
The petition, initiated by Dyah Rooslina, has garnered 13.254 signatures as of 2 January 2025 afternoon.
“For many users, public transportation such as TMD is indispensable, especially for those without private vehicles,” Dyah wrote.
Dyah emphasized the importance of TMD in providing affordable and reliable mobility for residents of Sarbagita. “Stopping this service would significantly disrupt lives and the push for sustainable urban living in Bali,” she added.
Conflicting Statements from Bali Authorities
The closure contradicts assurances previously made by Bali’s acting governor, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya.
During a year-end reflection event on 27 December 2024, Mahendra stated that TMD operations would continue into 2025, supported by allocations from regional and central government budgets.
“Funds have been budgeted for TMD operations. There’s no plan to discontinue the service,” Mahendra said, adding that the provincial government is still evaluating the bus system, which he described as a crucial public utility.
Uncertain Future for Public Transit
The discontinuation of TMD highlights the challenges of maintaining public transportation services in Bali. The buses have been praised for reducing congestion and promoting eco-friendly travel options.
