5 Touching Farewell Photos of Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto with Thousands of Sritex Employees, Capturing the Most Beautiful Memories

Kapanlagi.com - After standing proudly for 58 years as one of the textile giants in Southeast Asia, PT Sri Rejeki Isman Tbk (Sritex) officially closes its operational chapter. This surprising decision leaves a deep sorrow for the thousands of employees and management who have dedicated their hard work over the years.

The farewell event held at Sritex's headquarters in Sukoharjo on Friday, February 28, 2025, was filled with overwhelming emotions. Tears of joy, warm hugs, and memorable moments colored the atmosphere. Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto, the President Director of Sritex, delivered a heartfelt farewell speech, expressing deep gratitude to the employees who have been an integral part of the company's journey.

As a symbolic farewell full of meaning, thousands of employees and management united in singing "Kenangan Terindah" by the band Samsons. The atmosphere became even more touching as they hugged each other, providing support to one another amidst the pouring rain that added to the emotional ambiance of the event.

1. Iwan Kurniawan's Touching Message for Thousands of Employees

The Farewell of Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto with Thousands of Sritex Employees (Photo: Instagram @ik.lukminto)

In a moment filled with emotion, Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto emphasized how valuable every employee is to Sritex, referring to them as the most important asset the company has. With a sad tone, he expressed his sense of loss over the bitter decision that had to be made after years of working together.

“Curators always talk about assets, but they forget that the most valuable asset is all of us. Therefore, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for all the dedication, loyalty, hard work, and love for the company up to this day,” said Iwan Kurniawan, quoted from an Instagram post by @ik.lukminto, Saturday (1/3/2025).

Iwan also expressed his apologies if during his leadership he was unable to provide the best for the employees, considering the long journey of 58 years full of twists and turns has been a heavy chapter for all parties involved.

2. A Farewell Moment Filled with Tears and Hugs

Farewell Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto with Thousands of Sritex Employees (Photo: Instagram @ik.lukminto)

At the Sritex headquarters, thousands of employees lined up neatly wearing blue uniforms that represent the company's identity, creating a heartfelt atmosphere during this unforgettable farewell moment.

Iwan Kurniawan's emotional speech invited everyone present to reflect on their journey and to make this moment a starting point for self-introspection. He hoped that every individual who has ever been part of Sritex could continue their work and spread the values instilled by the company far and wide.

As the song "Kenangan Terindah" echoed, the atmosphere became even more touching; many employees could not hold back their tears, embracing and shaking hands with each other, while Iwan Kurniawan was also seen wiping his tears, feeling the depth of emotion that enveloped the moment.

3. Settlement of Salaries and Employee Rights

Farewell Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto with Thousands of Sritex Employees (Photo: Instagram @ik.lukminto)

In a moment filled with emotion, several employees loudly voiced their demands regarding unpaid salaries. Hearing the heartfelt cries of his workers, Sritex's General Director, Supartodi, immediately assured that the fund disbursement process was underway.

Iwan Kurniawan also reaffirmed the management's commitment to fulfill all employee rights in accordance with applicable regulations, adding that they had coordinated with the curator to ensure that every employee received their rights before leaving the company.

4. Impact of Sritex's Closure on the Indonesian Textile Industry

The farewell of Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto with thousands of Sritex employees (Photo: Instagram @ik.lukminto)

The closure of Sritex, one of Indonesia's textile giants that has been in operation since 1966, has shaken not only its employees but also the entire national textile industry.

As a producer of fabrics, military clothing, and official uniforms for various countries, Sritex has been an important pillar in this sector. Now, with the company's closure, a significant challenge faces thousands of employees who are forced to seek alternative employment amid global economic uncertainty.

Hope has emerged from various circles to find solutions that can assist former Sritex employees, both in finding new jobs and in building independent businesses, for a brighter future.

5. Profile of Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto, CEO of Sritex

Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto (credit: instagram.com/ik.lukminto)

Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto is the CEO of Sritex who was born in Surakarta on January 22, 1983. He studied at Johnson & Wales University in the United States and has a background in business administration.

As the second generation of the Lukminto family, he continued the leadership of Sritex after his father, Lukminto, the founder of the company, passed away. Under his leadership, Sritex has grown into a widely recognized textile company in the international market, especially in the production of military uniforms and high-quality textile products.

However, amidst increasingly challenging business conditions, particularly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and financial pressures, Sritex faced difficulties that ultimately forced the company to cease its operations.

6. FAQ

1.Why did Sritex close?

Sritex closed due to prolonged financial difficulties, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic which impacted the textile industry globally. In addition, the company's mounting debts and intense competition in the textile sector also contributed to this decision.

2.What is the impact of Sritex's closure on employees?

Thousands of employees lost their jobs due to this closure. Many of them had worked at Sritex for decades. Management has ensured that employee rights, including salaries and severance pay, will still be provided through coordination with the curator.

3.What is the condition of the Indonesian textile industry after Sritex's closure?

The closure of Sritex is a blow to the national textile industry. As one of the largest textile producers in Indonesia, Sritex has made significant contributions to the export and provision of military uniforms. With the cessation of the company's operations, competition in the textile industry has become increasingly tight and threatens jobs in this sector.

4. What was Iwan Kurniawan's last message to Sritex employees?

In his farewell speech, Iwan Kurniawan stated that employees are the company's greatest asset. He urged all former employees to continue to create and carry the positive values of Sritex wherever they go.

5. Is there a possibility for Sritex to rise again?

Currently, there is no certainty whether Sritex will resume operations in the future. However, many parties hope that the company can find solutions to survive or return with a new business model.

(kpl/rmt)