The Business Families Institute (BFI) at SMU is thrilled to reflect on the first overseas edition of our Family Entrepreneurship Programme, which was held in Jakarta from April 22 to 24. Participants had an exciting time exploring Indonesia's vibrant economic landscape, thanks to the generous hospitality and support from hosts, speakers, partners, and the many individuals working behind the scenes. The programme was led by BFI’s Academic Director, Associate Professor Kenneth Goh, and Senior Deputy Director Esther Kong. We had an exciting time exploring Indonesia's vibrant economic landscape, thanks to the generous hospitality and support from hosts, speakers, partners, and the many individuals working behind the scenes. This journey marks a new milestone, uniting next-gen family business leaders across the region for an enriching three-day experience that demonstrated the crucial role of BFI’s 4Gs in developing family entrepreneurship.
Think Generations: Succession, Next-Generation Development and Family Governance
Under the expert guidance of Ms. Ee Lin Chan, Founder & CEO of Business Families Advisory, participants explored family governance, focusing on balancing family and business priorities. The interactive approach allowed participants to deeply engage in the complex dynamics and structures involved in family governance. Participants also had a chance to role-play how they would communicate in sensitive situations with family elders, siblings, cousins, and younger generations.
One standout moment was the invaluable insights shared by Pak Charles Saerang, a third-generation member of PT Nyonya Meneer, who emphasised the significance of fostering openness, building trust, and preparing alternatives. His sharing of family disharmony was a compelling case study that illustrated the importance of these principles.
Next-Generation development was aptly exemplified in the succession planning narrative shared by Pak Hendriko Wijaya, Founder and President Director, and his daughter Ibu Cynthia Handriani Wijaya, Chief Corporate Officer of Daya Selaras Group (DSG). During a visit to DSG, participants had the privilege of touring Indonesia's pioneering Climate-Tech Hub. In a deeply personal session, Pak Hendriko and Ibu Cynthia shared insights into the business's transition, and how he supported and steered his children’s interest at a young age to groom them into responsible stewards for the family business.
Think Growth: Innovation and Leadership
Participants visited Indonesia's largest private healthcare service provider, Siloam, which covers over 65% of the provinces and serves over 50% of the population. Dr. Edy Gunawan, Chief Operating Officer, and Dr. Adityawati Ganggaiswari (Dieta) Parengkuan, Hospital Director, shared insights into Siloam Hospitals Group's Centres of Excellence, highlighting advancements in digitalisation and equipment at MRCCC Siloam Hospitals Semanggi.
A notable highlight was the engaging session with Pak John Riady, CEO of Lippo Group, who offered invaluable guidance on managing a diversified conglomerate, and how striking a delicate balance to avoid over-managing and underleading is key to maximising the potential of the talents in the Group.
Think Giving: Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility
During a visit to PT Paragon Corp, renowned for its halal cosmetics and skincare, participants were immersed in one of Indonesia's largest beauty companies' innovative practices and commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Led by CEO Pak Salman Subakat, participants gained firsthand insights into Paragon Corp's innovative practices and commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, centred around four pillars: women empowerment, education, environment, and health. It was most inspiring to learn about PT Paragon’s three main business pillars to reach 100 trillion of goodness.
Think Global: Regional Collaboration and Growth
The "Think Global" segment was marked by an enlightening sharing led by Dr. Ing. Ilham Akbar Habibie, Chairman of Ilthabi Rekatama. Dr. Habibie delved into investment and growth opportunities and the collaborative potential within ASEAN. We were also treated to Dr. Habibie’s vision for the future of aviation, which included drone delivery systems, electrification of planes, and sustainable aviation fuel.
Concluding on an inspiring note, a Fireside Chat with cousins Mr. Hitesh Bharwani and Mr. Manoj Bharwani, Co-Founders of Kanmo Group, who shared their journey in partnering leading global retail brands to expand their footprint in Indonesia. The cousins highlighted how they astutely navigated the dynamics of working together as cousins in partnership with an external investor to scale their entrepreneurial ventures in Indonesia.
Furthermore, the visit to Blibli.com, Indonesia's premier omnichannel commerce platform, highlighted the organisation's strategic approach to leveraging high-frequency businesses for sustainable growth.
As the programme drew to a close, we gathered for a memorable closing dinner at The Coach Restaurant, reflecting on the wealth of knowledge exchanged, connections made, and inspiration ignited throughout this transformative programme. A heartfelt thank you to all our esteemed speakers, partners, guests, and fellow participants for making this journey truly unforgettable. We hope everyone involved has found inspiration and valuable connections for their endeavours.