In his speech, Prof. Jachrizal emphasized the need for sustainable road management that prioritizes connectivity, safety, and environmental preservation, as roads are not only transportation routes but also the backbone of social and economic development. By leveraging environmentally friendly technologies and materials and focusing on transitioning to green infrastructure and electric vehicles, Indonesia can create a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable road network.
Prof. Jachrizal outlined three strategic approaches in road management as part of planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure optimal road infrastructure. These strategies are innovations in infrastructure through pavement design, regulation-based management, and safety and functional adequacy assurance.
Pavement is a critical component in road management, with periodic maintenance necessary to prevent road damage. Prof. Jachrizal’s research shows that the use of Buton asphalt in road materials can reduce dependency on petroleum-based asphalt. Nano crumb rubber enhances asphalt durability, provides rutting deformation resistance, and extends pavement lifespan, aligning with sustainability principles for more eco-friendly, resilient infrastructure.
In addition to infrastructure, road safety is a primary goal in road management. Indonesia’s accident ratio stands at 57.84 per 100,000 people, according to the National Police Traffic Safety Report 2023, with twelve provinces exceeding the national average, necessitating intensive safety measures. Effective road safety management requires sound road design and maintenance, along with facilities for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
Prof. Jachrizal also highlighted the importance of functional road evaluation. Roads should be safe, comfortable, and smooth transportation infrastructures. Routine maintenance and periodic audits ensure roads remain in good condition. Using modern technology for road monitoring and maintenance can increase efficiency and effectiveness in functional assessments.
Furthermore, road management should facilitate the transition from conventional vehicles (CVs) to fully automated and connected vehicle systems (CAVs). Electric vehicles offer solutions for pollution and transportation efficiency, but road infrastructure must support charging from renewable energy sources. Policies that accommodate technologies like radar and lidar for autonomous vehicle operation are essential. The synergy between infrastructure readiness and technology can encourage a more eco-friendly transportation system.
“We must remember that roads are not merely transportation means but also multifunctional public spaces. Roads serve as movement channels as well as economic, social, and cultural spaces. Therefore, it is essential to design roads as inclusive public spaces. With the right approach, we can balance public interest, enhance social interactions, and make roads welcoming for all,” said Prof. Jachrizal.
He added that achieving effective sustainable road management requires sustainable road assessments, including evaluating the environmental, social, and economic impacts of existing roads. This enables necessary improvements and developments that meet current needs while considering long-term impacts on society and the environment.
The Dean of FTUI, Prof. Dr. Ir. Heri Hermansyah, S.T., M.Eng., IPU, stated, “The inauguration of Prof. Jachrizal Sumabrata as Professor in Road Transportation Management at FTUI is a significant moment affirming our commitment to building sustainable, safe, and inclusive road infrastructure. Roads are not just transportation routes but also public spaces with social, economic, and cultural roles. By applying technological innovation, eco-friendly materials, and sustainable road management strategies, we can create a transportation network that is not only efficient but also enhances connectivity and quality of life for everyone.”
Prof. Jachrizal’s research in road management reflects his dedication to transportation. His other studies include “Effect of High Recycled Aggregate Content in Hot Mix Asphalt on Volumetric and Skid Resistance Characteristics” published in Civil Engineering and Architecture (2024); “Factorial Experimental Analysis of Buton Natural Asphalt with Crumb Rubber in Asphalt Concrete Wearing Course (AC-WC)” published in the same journal and year; and “Improvement of Buton Rock Asphalt Performance by Adding Nano-Crumb Rubber and Waste Engine Oil” published in the International Journal of Pavement Research and Technology (2023).
Before his professorship, Prof. Jachrizal completed his Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering at FTUI (1987), Master’s in Science, Transport, at the Institute for Transport Studies (ITS) Leeds University (1994), and Doctorate in Philosophy, Planning, at the University of Melbourne (2004). He has served as Director of the Center for Sustainable Infrastructure Development at UI (2015–2018), Head of the Department of Civil Engineering at FTUI (2018–2022), and Head of the Transportation Laboratory at the Department of Civil Engineering FTUI since 2022.
The inauguration ceremony for Prof. Jachrizal was attended by distinguished guests, including the Director of Business Development at PT Jasa Marga Persero Tbk., Mohamad Agus Setiawan, S.T., M.T., IPU; Senior Road and Bridge Management Expert from the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing, Dr. Ir. Herry Trisaputra Zuna, S.E., M.T.; and the Spokesperson for Densus 88 Anti-Terror POLRI, Police Commissioner Aswin Azhar Siregar, S.I.K., M.Si., M.Sc.Eng., Ph.D.
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