Search Content

Semarang, September 14, 2025 — PT XLSMART Telecom Sejahtera Tbk (XLSMART) held XL Weekend Rush Semarang, a huge festival that combined fun bike, entertainment, and digital lifestyle in Semarang on Sunday (14/9). With the spirit of "refresh, recharge, rediscover," XL Weekend Rush served as XLSMART's appreciation for around 645,000 customers in Semarang, while also proving the strength of its post merger network, which has wider coverage, larger capacity, and more reliable service quality.

Arif Farhan Budiyanto, XLSMART Central Region Group Head, stated that the decision of making Semarang the first city for Weekend Rush was not made lightly. Beyond the many historical icons that participants could visit, the event provided an opportunity for XLSMART to demonstrate its service readiness by supporting community events at the city's historical landmarks.

Through this event, XLSMART reaffirms its commitment to providing the best service for the people of Central Java, especially Semarang, Arif further added.

One of the main highlights was a 20-kilometer fun bike ride with 500 participants from varied backgrounds, including cycling communities, families, and loyal XLSMART customers. The route was created to provide a unique experience, traversing through Simpang Lima, Kota Lama, Sam Poo Kong, and Banjir Kanal before returning to Plaza Simpang Lima. Participants not only participated in sports, but also had the opportunity to explore Semarang's rich history and cultural landmarks.

Each participant received an exclusive race pack, which included a jersey, cycling cap, BIB number, medal, and refreshments. Water stations, medical posts, marshals, and cheering squads were stationed at multiple spots to provide safety and comfort. XLSMART also gave awards in the King of Mountain (KOM) category, with cash, smartphones, exclusive products, and thrilling door prizes.

The general public also enjoyed the Weekend Rush Festival for free at Plaza Simpang Lima. The festival featured local culinary tenants serving Central Javanese specialities, lifestyle booths, XLSMART brand activations, interactive games, quizzes with prizes, photobooths, and exclusive merchandise.

Arif continued on to explain that Plaza Simpang Lima was chosen as the festival's hub because it is an iconic area, a public gathering place, and a symbol of Semarang's urban life. Its strategic location, accessibility, and size made it ideal for hosting a festival with thousands of participants.

As the highlight, the main stage featured special performances by popular Indonesian bands RAN and Barasuara, who were ready to enthral thousands of participants with their musical excitement. Local musicians and a collective Zumba session contributed to the cheerful and healthy ambience.

Meanwhile, Sri Sofyana Sugiarmadji, Head of Consumer Propositions at XLSMART, stated, "XL Weekend Rush has genuinely transformed into a public space where anyone can experience the best of digital services directly. Simpang Lima stands in the heart of Semarang, presenting it as an ideal location for everyone to feel the positive energy of this event."

At the event, XLSMART also set up interactive booths demonstrating digital experiences ranging from product education to app based activities.

Stronger Network in Semarang and Central Java

Further, Agus Rohmat, XLSMART Group Head of Network Operations, explained that the company is continuing to strengthen its network in Central Java, notably in Semarang, as a strategic market with 645,000 customers. Following the merger, XLSMART considerably increased its telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in Semarang. This move is consistent with its commitment to delivering reliable communication services in locations with thriving economic and social activity.

To assure participant and public convenience, XLSMART implemented preventative measures including network optimization and capacity enhancement at several locations. Specifically, at Simpang Lima, where the crowd was concentrated, XLSMART enhanced its network with full bandwidth configuration, multisector deployment, and Massive MIMO. The company upgraded the transmission at several towers in order to prepare for traffic surges.

"These steps ensure stable communication services, both for voice and data, allowing participants to enjoy smooth connectivity throughout the event since early morning," Agus added.

Following the merger, XLSMART expanded its network with more than 2,100 new BTS across Central Java. Currently, more than 27,500 BTS are in operation, with the majority being 4G. This expansion includes key areas including Klaten, Wonogiri, Temanggung, Kendal, Kudus, Demak, Jepara, and Pati.

In Semarang alone, XLSMART added at least 430 BTS, which are projected to increase data service quality and digital customer experience.

Network strengthening was concentrated not only on urban areas, but also on key routes throughout Central Java. XLSMART provided stable signal quality along the Pantura route, the Trans Java toll road, and tourism sites. Special technical assistance was also deployed during the fun bike to ensure that data services performed well, Agus further explained.

The success of XL Weekend Rush Semarang paves ahead for similar events in other major cities across Indonesia. XLSMART plans to begin an annual roadshow on the same concept, allowing new communities to benefit from and partake in the delightful energy of the event.

This initiative will also be part of the XL Weekend Rush national roadshow, set to reach major cities across Indonesia, thereby increasing its beneficial impact and engaging communities on a wider scale.