From Business To Humanity, Social Travel Of Conglomerate Sugianto Kusuma 'Aguan' In Indonesia

JAKARTA - Sugianto Kusuma, or better known as Aguan, is one of the leading conglomerates in Indonesia. As the founder of the Agung Sedayu Group (ASG), Aguan has built a property business empire that includes various major projects in Indonesia. However, behind his business success, Aguan is also known as a person who has high concern for the social environment and is happy to help others.

Career And Success Travel In The Property World

Aguan was born in Palembang, South Sumatra, on January 9, 1951. He started his business trip by establishing the Agung Sedayu Group in 1971. Initially, ASG was just a small contractor company engaged in the construction of simple houses and shops. However, thanks to the hard work and proper business strategy, this company is growing rapidly and is one of the largest property developers in Indonesia.

Since 1991, ASG has become increasingly known for major projects such as Harco Mangga Dua, 200 hectares of Palem Park, as well as the development of the elite area of Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK 2). In addition, ASG has also succeeded in building shopping centers such as Ashta District 8, Mall of Indonesia, PIK Avenue, and Grand Galaxy Park. This success proves that Aguan is a visionary businessman and is able to bring major changes in the world of Indonesian property.

Social Concern Through Buddha Tzu Chi

Outside of business, Aguan has an important role in the Buddhist philanthropic organization Tzu Chi Indonesia. He served as Deputy Chairman of the Foundation and was actively involved in various social activities. According to him, the teachings brought by the founder of Tzu Chi, Master Cheng Yen, touched his heart very much. This teaching emphasizes universal love without distinguishing ethnicity, religion, and race.

Aguan began to get to know Tzu Chi in 2002, when a large flood hit Jakarta. At that time, he personally distributed food to residents affected by the flood. This experience opened his eyes to the social gap in Indonesia. He is also increasingly active in various Tzu Chi social activities, including building flats for the poor in Kali Angke.

One of the experiences that made an impression for him was when he had to collect donations for housing construction projects for underprivileged residents. Initially, he thought that the cost of development could be borne by a handful of rich people. However, he then understood that the concept of Tzu Chi is to raise funds from many people as a form of mutual love. He also began to invite his fellow entrepreneurs to contribute, and many of them finally joined as donors and volunteers for Tzu Chi.

Construction Of Free Houses For Low-Income Communities

As a form of his concern for the community, Aguan and Agung Sedayu Group through PT Pantai Indah Kapuk Dua have disbursed funds of around Rp 60 billion for the construction of free houses for low-income people (MBR) in Tangerang, Banten. This development is part of the corporate social responsibility program (CSR) and is working with the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP).

This housing is built on a 2.5 hectare grant area provided by the Minister of PKP Maruarar Sirait. A total of 250 units of type 36 houses will be given free of charge to people in need.

Aguan emphasized that the concept of mutual cooperation in helping people is not only limited to the construction of new houses. He also opened the possibility to renovate uninhabitable houses in the village area as part of efforts to improve the quality of life of the community. In addition, he plans to build free houses in other areas according to existing needs.

Big Changes In Aguan's Life

Being a part of Tzu Chi brings big changes in Aguan's life. If he used to spend his free time gathering with friends and enjoying modest entertainment, now he prefers to spend his time on social activities. For him, working at Tzu Chi is a form of inner "refreshing" that provides true peace and happiness.

As a company leader, Aguan's time is actually very limited. However, he always took the time to come to the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation office several times a week. He has also never calculated in supporting funds for various social activities carried out by this foundation.

"The important thing is that the intention is sincere, that way our minds become clear," he said.

Confidence In Karma And Life Principles

Aguan strongly believes in the laws of karma that every kindness that is done will bring good reply too. This principle he adheres to firmly in living his daily life, both in his business and social activities. He also has a strong belief in fengshui, which he thinks can provide balance in life.

In addition, he is also actively reading books, especially those related to the success stories of world figures and the biography of leaders. From these books, he learns how to face challenges in life and how to become a better leader.

Sugianto Kusuma Alias Aguan

Sugianto Kusuma is not only a successful businessman, but also a person who has a high concern for the community. Through his involvement in Buddha Tzu Chi and various other social programs, he has helped many people in need, especially in the field of house construction for underprivileged residents and assistance for disaster victims.

His dedication in the social world proves that true success is not only measured by business success, but also from how much one contributes to the welfare of the community. With the principle of love and hard work, Aguan has been an inspiration for many people to continue to do good and share with others.