Benny Laos' Wife Replaces Her Husband in the North Maluku Pilkada, Her Wealth Becomes a Hot Topic

Kapanlagi.com - Sherly Tjoanda, the wife of the late Benny Laos, is now in the public spotlight after officially declaring her candidacy for Governor of North Maluku in the 2024 Pilkada. This bold decision was made shortly after the heartbreaking tragedy that claimed her husband's life due to a speedboat explosion on Taliabu Island last October. With this step, Sherly demonstrates a deep commitment to their shared vision for the welfare of the people of North Maluku.

With an excellent educational background and extensive experience in the business and government sectors, Sherly presents herself with confidence in this political arena. Besides being known as a resilient mother of three children, her fantastic wealth of Rp709 billion makes her one of the wealthiest candidates in this Pilkada.

Sherly's presence in the political arena not only brings new hope but also significant challenges that she must face. So, what is Sherly Tjoanda's life journey until she fills the list of regional head candidates in the fourth position, paired with Sarbin Sehe? Let's take a look at the interesting review below, summarized by Kapanlagi.com from various sources on Tuesday (26/11).

1. Continue the Struggle of the Late Benny Laos

Sherly's life underwent a shocking change on October 12, 2024, when her husband, Benny Laos, tragically died in a speedboat explosion on Taliabu Island.

This heartbreaking incident occurred while Benny was on his way for a regional election campaign, and the speedboat he was on caught fire during refueling.

Amid deep sorrow, Sherly, who faithfully accompanied her husband, rose from grief and just two weeks after the loss, she bravely announced her intention to continue Benny's political struggle.

This moment became a defining turning point for Sherly, who is now ready to run as a gubernatorial candidate with Sarbin Sehe as her deputy, showing that the fighting spirit will not be extinguished even in the face of storms.

2. Brief Profile of Sherly Tjoanda

Sherly Tjoanda, born on August 8, 1984, began an impressive life journey when she married Benny Laos on May 28, 2005.

With an outstanding educational background, she earned a degree in International Business Management from Petra University Surabaya, before continuing her double degree studies at Inholland University in the Netherlands, graduating in 2004.

This solid education became the foundation for Sherly to achieve success in the business and government sectors.

Currently, she serves as the Director of PT Bela Group, a company she manages with her husband, as well as leading as the Chairperson of the Regional Leadership Council (DPD) of the Indonesian Farmers' Harmony Association (HKTI) in North Maluku Province, demonstrating her extraordinary dedication to advancing the agricultural sector in her region.

3. Initial Steps in the Political World

Sherly, who first entered the political world in 2017 accompanying her husband, Benny, as the Regent of Morotai Island, is now ready to take a step further with burning ambition. This valuable experience has given her deep insights into the intricacies of governance and the needs of the local community.

When Benny ran for Governor of North Maluku, Sherly not only became a loyal companion but also an active figure supporting various programs. Now, with the number four position, she is determined to continue her husband's struggle, partnering with Sarbin Sehe.

The Chairman of the North Maluku KPU, Mochtar Alting, confirmed that Sherly has met all the requirements to participate in the 2024 Pilkada, marking a new chapter in her passionate political journey.

4. Sherly Tjoanda's Fantastic Wealth

According to LHKPN reports, Sherly has amassed a fantastic wealth of Rp709 billion, mostly derived from land and buildings valued at Rp201 billion, as well as a collection of luxury vehicles worth Rp7 billion.

This wealth also includes an inheritance from her late husband, estimated to be around Rp146 billion. Additionally, Sherly has brilliant investments in various sectors, such as stocks and real estate.

It is no wonder that her wealth attracts public attention, considering she is regarded as one of the candidates with impressive financial strength.

5. Campaign and Political Strategy

Sherly is now actively campaigning in various corners of North Maluku, and this time she is not alone; her children are also participating in visits to Jailolo to get closer to the community.

In her social media posts, she showcases her unwavering fighting spirit even as she battles through heavy rain.

"This is not just my struggle, but our struggle together," she writes with great enthusiasm.

With a warm personal approach, Sherly strives to build closeness with the local community, showing that she truly cares and is ready to listen to their aspirations.

6. Family Support and Campaign Team

Sherly's children, Edbert, Edelyn, and Edrick, are the pillars of spirit in every step of their mother's campaign, demonstrating the family's strong commitment to continuing Benny Laos's vision.

Their presence at various events is not just a form of support, but also a symbol of hope and unity. Sherly's campaign team works tirelessly to build her positive image as a strong and visionary female leader.

The community's spirit is also increasingly fervent, evident from the enthusiasm of residents who flock to attend each of her campaign events, indicating abundant support for a better future.

7. Hope and Challenges Ahead

Becoming a gubernatorial candidate is certainly not an easy journey for Sherly, who now has to face various criticisms and high hopes from the community, especially regarding the continuation of the programs initiated by Benny Laos.

However, with a wealth of experience and a clear vision, Sherly is optimistic about being able to bring significant change.

She is committed to prioritizing regional economic development and empowering local communities, in order to create a brighter future for all.

8. Questions and Answers: What is Sherly Tjoanda's educational background?

Sherly completed her bachelor's degree at Petra University Surabaya before taking a bold step further by enrolling in a double degree program at Inholland University, Netherlands, a courageous move that demonstrates her enthusiasm for gaining international knowledge and experience.

9. What is the total wealth of Sherly Tjoanda?

According to the State Organizer Wealth Report (LHKPN), Sherly recorded an extraordinary wealth of Rp709 billion, a figure that reflects her achievements and success in managing assets.

10. Who is the running mate of Sherly Tjoanda for vice governor?

A solid pair, Sherly and Sarbin Sehe, are ready to fight together in the 2024 regional elections, demonstrating their strength and vision to bring about the change desired by the community.

11. What are the challenges for Sherly as the gubernatorial candidate of North Maluku?

One of the most exciting challenges currently faced is how to meet the expectations of the community while continuing the legacy of the late Benny Laos's programs that have inspired many.

(kpl/rmt)