I recently received another heartwarming message from an Indonesian railfan. My friend, Faris Fadhli, kindly shared some news along with his latest photos. I really appreciate his updates—they always make me feel closer to Indonesia’s railway scene.
As many of you may know, the former Tokyu 8000 and 8500 series EMUs, JR East’s 203 series EMUs, and Tokyo Metro’s 05 series EMUs were all retired by the beginning of 2026. They are now being scrapped at Depok Railyard near Jakarta. Faris even sent me photos of the stacked train bodies in the junkyard. But honestly, I had to look away. Seeing them like that was too painful for me. Maybe I’m a bit sentimental… but I guess that’s what being a railfan is all about.
So instead of those sad images, let me share a brighter one that Faris sent me last year. Please look at the photo above—yes, that’s Set 8618 (or 8618F) of the former Tokyu 8500 series EMU in Jakarta. Among Indonesian railfans, this set became known as the “Revival of JALITA.” It was specially displayed at Jakarta Kota Station during the farewell ceremony for three former Japanese train sets on November 11, 2025. If you’re interested, please take a look at my earlier post about this revival story.
As I’ve mentioned before, I lived in Jakarta from 2007 to 2011. During those years, 8618F wasn’t just a means of transportation—it was something that quietly supported me every day. That feeling still hasn’t faded. In the photo below, you can see 8618F as it looked in 2011. Arigato (thank you), 8618F. You were a special companion.
I also have some good news to share. The leading car of 8618F, Unit DeHa 8518, will be preserved at the Museum Kereta Api Ambarawa (Ambarawa Railway Museum) in Central Java. I’m so relieved to know that at least part of the set will live on. And recently, new EMUs have been introduced in the Jakarta area, so there’s always something exciting happening there. I really can’t take my eyes off Indonesian railways.
To be continued…
