Profile of Bahlil Lahadalia, Golkar Chairman Who Received Praise from President Prabowo

Kapanlagi.com - In a special moment celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Golkar Party held at the Sentul International Convention Center (SICC), Bogor, President Prabowo Subianto gave high praise to the new figure leading the Golkar Party, Bahlil Lahadalia. Although Prabowo admitted he had not known Bahlil for long, he could not hide his admiration for the spirit, thinking, and leadership demonstrated by Bahlil.

Prabowo shared a story about his first impression when he heard President Joko Widodo's decision to appoint Bahlil as the Minister of Investment. Initially, he felt a bit strange about the appointment, but over time, Prabowo began to see Bahlil's competence and vision more clearly.

In his speech, Prabowo emphasized the importance of having political leaders like Bahlil, who combine deep knowledge of politics and economics with a sincere love for the homeland. This moment became an important highlight in the journey of the Golkar Party and showed great hope for the future under Bahlil's leadership. You can find more complete information on Liputan6, Friday (13/12).

1. The Beginning of Education in Papua

Bahlil Lahadalia, who was born on August 7, 1976, in Maluku, grew up in a simple family and started his life with various jobs, from selling cakes to becoming a public transportation driver, in order to help his family's economy.

This burning fighting spirit became a strong foundation for his future career. Bahlil's education began at SD Negeri and SMP Negeri 1 Seram Timur, before continuing to SMA YAPIS Fakfak. Although he was temporarily hindered by the riots in May 1998, he did not give up and successfully completed his studies at the Port Numbay School of Economics in Jayapura at the age of 26, actively participating in the Islamic Student Association (HMI).

His academic journey continued until he obtained a Master of Science degree from Cenderawasih University, and he is currently pursuing further education at the University of Indonesia, scheduled to be completed in 2024.

2. Inspiring Business and Investment Career

Bahlil, a young entrepreneur who began his career by founding PT Rifa Capital, a holding company that oversees ten companies in sectors ranging from transportation to property, has captured attention on the national business stage. After serving as the Chairman of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI) from 2015 to 2019, he took a further step by being entrusted to lead the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) in 2019, where he successfully attracted significant investments from countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Germany.

His success led him to become Indonesia's first Minister of Investment in 2021. Known for his pragmatic and solution-oriented approach, Bahlil even employed a team of translators to communicate with foreign investors, demonstrating remarkable adaptability in complex situations. His leadership style has also received praise from various circles, including President Prabowo, making him one of the inspirational figures in the current investment era.

3. Political Leadership in Golkar

After achieving remarkable success in governance, Bahlil returned to the political arena by being elected as the Chairman of the Golkar Party in August 2024, replacing Airlangga Hartarto. The majority support from Golkar cadres flowed abundantly, acknowledging Bahlil's potential as a visionary and passionate leader.

With unwavering determination, Bahlil is committed to making Golkar a more inclusive and progressive party, focusing on crucial issues such as industrial downstreaming, strengthening the local economy, and empowering the youth. In a short time, he has launched various innovative work programs, demonstrating his seriousness in bringing about change.

Under his leadership, Golkar is not only active in forging strategic partnerships with various parties but also successfully accommodates diverse interests without compromising the party's fundamental principles.

4. Vision and Influence in the Red and White Cabinet

Since taking office as the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources in 2024, Bahlil has been the main architect in realizing the downstream program for natural resources that is a government priority. With a burning spirit, he tirelessly promotes investment in the renewable energy sector while maintaining the sustainability of the mining industry in the homeland.

His brilliant vision for downstreaming is encapsulated in 26 books that he submitted to President Prabowo, serving as a strategic guide in formulating economic policies aimed at improving the welfare of the people. His collaboration with President Prabowo demonstrates a strong synergy between the government and political parties, while Bahlil himself is known as a figure who combines big ideas with real actions.

He believes that the success of a policy lies in its implementation on the ground, which is why he is always committed to establishing solid coordination with various stakeholders.

5. Praised by President Prabowo Subianto

In a festive atmosphere celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Golkar Party at the Sentul International Convention Center, Bogor, on Thursday night (12/12), President Prabowo Subianto showered praise on Bahlil, the Minister of Investment, who is considered very impressive.

"I am very impressed with Bahlil, from his gestures to his views, everything is so convincing," Prabowo stated seriously. He highlighted Bahlil's skill in managing work programs in the Joko Widodo cabinet, especially when communicating with entrepreneurs and foreign officials.

"He even uses four interpreters to bridge communication with those who cannot speak English. Very smart! I see, this person is indeed extraordinary," he added, showing genuine admiration.

6. What is Bahlil Lahadalia's educational background?

Bahlil, an inspirational figure who pursued his education in Papua, successfully obtained a Master's degree from Cenderawasih University before continuing his brilliant journey by earning a doctorate at the University of Indonesia.

7. What are Bahlil's achievements as the Minister of Investment?

Bahlil successfully partnered with major investors from Japan, South Korea, and Germany, while also boosting industrial downstreaming in the country. This strategic move not only opens up promising investment opportunities but also encourages more sustainable industrial growth in Indonesia.

8. When did Bahlil become the Chairman of the Golkar Party?

Bahlil officially confirmed his position as the Chairman of the Golkar Party on August 21, 2024, marking a new chapter in his political journey and that of this decades-old party.

9. What are Bahlil's main focuses as the Chairman of Golkar?

A: Our main priorities are to strengthen the local economy, promote industrial downstreaming, and empower the younger generation to create a brighter and more sustainable future.

(kpl/ank)