On April 22, 2026, a video circulated on social media showing a long-distance train passenger using an electric hotplate connected to a seat power outlet to cook instant noodles inside a Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) carriage. The clip, which drew widespread attention online, prompted an immediate response from the state-owned railway operator, which reiterated its prohibition on using such high-wattage appliances on its services.
The incident occurred aboard a long-distance train, where the passenger was seen plugging in an electric cooking device and preparing a meal. KAI officials confirmed that the act violated established safety regulations designed to prevent electrical overload and ensure passenger comfort and security.
Luqman Arif, Public Relations Manager for KAI Operational Area 4 Semarang, stated that seat-mounted power outlets are intended solely for low-power personal electronics such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and earphones. He emphasized that using the outlets for household appliances like electric stoves, rice cookers, or hair dryers is strictly forbidden due to the risk of exceeding the train’s electrical capacity.
“Besides gadgets, passengers are not allowed to apply the power outlets on trains for other purposes such as household electronic appliances. This is because it can disturb other passengers and potentially endanger safety and comfort during the train journey,” Luqman said, as reported by detikNews on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
He further explained that simultaneous use of high-power electrical devices could interfere with the train’s overall electrical system, potentially triggering a short circuit (korsleting) and disrupting essential services. Such disruptions, he noted, could compromise both operational stability and passenger well-being.
KAI’s policy explicitly bans passengers from plugging in high-wattage devices, including electric kettles, hotplates, and similar appliances, to prevent electrical imbalance and protect the integrity of the train’s power network. The operator also prohibits directly charging power banks via seat outlets, citing similar risks.
Luqman advised passengers experiencing issues such as suboptimal air conditioning to contact onboard conductors, whose contact numbers are displayed on carriage walls, rather than attempting to use unauthorized electrical devices.
The viral video reignited public discussion about passenger responsibility and adherence to safety protocols on public transport. While no injuries or service disruptions were reported in connection with this specific incident, KAI used the opportunity to reinforce its messaging about the dangers of misusing train electrical facilities.
The railway operator continues to monitor compliance through announcements, signage, and staff intervention, aiming to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for all travelers across its nationwide network.