“What misses me will never be my destiny, and what is destined for me will never miss me” – Umar Ibn Khattab

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What have you been doing after graduation?

I am currently in a Financial Analyst Development Program (FADP) at Sinar Mas Mining – TechConnect. With PSB Academy Career Services and Engagement, specifically for industry engagement efforts in Indonesia, my employment has been made possible through one of their industry partners, which is Sinar Mas Mining – Tech Connect.

Through this programme, I have learned and am still learning how to be an investment analyst. Deciding to go through this programme is a great start to developing my skills for the future.

As an investment analyst, I analyse a company’s financial reports to determine whether it is a stable company and/or if the deal would benefit us. It is not an easy task because we have to look at many angles and risks before making a deal.

Why did you choose to enrol in the Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Business and Finance?

I had a few options in mind, and one of them was the Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Business and Finance from Coventry University at PSB Academy. I have heard from others that the Business and Finance course is one of PSB Academy’s top programme choices. Moreover, the course was aligned with my career goals.

Describe your experience studying in Singapore, and how has it helped you in your personal growth. What do you miss the most about your time at PSB Academy?

I gained a lot of new experiences while studying in Singapore, where I was given the opportunity to better myself in becoming a more responsible, cautious, and intuitive person. Since there were so many individuals from different backgrounds, it honed my communication skills, which is crucial when stepping into the real working world or even in the future when I decide to further my academic studies.

What were some valuable takeaways you took at PSB Academy? 

Because of the different ethnicities and languages spoken in Singapore, communicating has always been challenging. As a result, I appreciate the opportunities where I could put myself out there to collaborate and communicate with different groups of people.

Moreover, my analytical abilities are what I truly value most. My time at PSB Academy has honed my analytical skills, which was essential in my role as a credit, investment, and financial analyst today.

What were the challenges you faced when you were seeking employment after graduation? How do you overcome them?

The biggest challenge I faced was the tight competition within the industry. There are a lot of qualified people that could have easily knocked me out, but that is also one of the reasons that motivated me to better myself.

Before my current role, I went for a few different interviews until someone from Sinarmas reached out and offered me to join the FADP in Sinarmas. After going through the interview and written test process, I landed a job at Sinarmas.

The career services team at PSB Academy helped me a lot when I was actively seeking a job. Through their workshops, my interview skills improved.

What are your thoughts on the opportunities available in Indonesia for fresh graduates?

Opportunities are everywhere as long as we put ourselves out there.

While it may be challenging for fresh graduates at the start, many management trainee programmes are actively recruiting. Moreover, graduates can attend PSB Academy’s career fairs or apply for roles through various recruitment sites like LinkedIn. LinkedIn is also a platform where you can approach hiring managers directly.

Most companies in Indonesia are on the lookout for analysts, programmers, and data-entry roles. In fact, you will find a lot of people running support for global companies. Hiring managers would often look at graduates from international universities where their English proficiency levels are higher. Studying in Singapore and at PSB Academy would boost our employment opportunities.

What has been your greatest achievement or most significant project to date (if any)?

My most significant achievement was plucking up the courage to further my studies in a foreign country. Studying abroad is not an easy feat. I have had to overcome the anxiety of stepping into a new country and becoming independent while ensuring my studies do not take a back step. This is why most people would say studying abroad is one of the greatest leaps in anyone’s personal growth.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time while I was studying at PSB Academy – not only did it offer me a fast track to getting a degree, but it also equipped me with a lot of insights into real-life case studies. Personally, I do not agree that studying in a private education serves as a disadvantage in finding a job, I believe it’s how you apply what you learned and implement it in real life that will set you apart. For this, I am fortunate to have lecturers like Mr. Jason Ho in PSB Academy, who has gone above and beyond to ensure we are work-ready for the digital economy.

I would recommend PSB Academy and Coventry University to those who are looking to carve out a career in the finance industry.

Be dignified, honest, and truthful – Umar bin Khattab

 

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Could you share with us about your current role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at PT. Arvee Mega Realti, Papayoo Woodcraft, Alta Simetri?

I run several businesses, such as house development, interior design, and residential construction. As a COO of these businesses, I oversee the daily operation to ensure that they are under control and well managed.

What attracted you to start an interior and property businesses in Indonesia?

Indonesia has a lot of potential markets; the population is approximately 270 million people, and there are not many entrepreneurs in this field. In fact, many Indonesians have not been able to buy a house because of limited income. Therefore, I decided to run this property business and focus on helping Indonesian access affordable housing. Housing has always been a basic necessity, and I believe more people are now aware that they need to own a house.

What is one major success you have made at your business and what do you find most exciting about your business?

My journey as an entrepreneur began in 2014 when I was 23 years old. Most people, especially in Indonesia, tend to underestimate the younger generation because of their lack of experience. However, here I am with close to zero industry knowledge, competing with those equipped with years of experience. I wanted to prove that I could do it!

I decided to sell subsidised houses from the government at a lower cost to attract more customers. Within a year, I sold over 100 houses. This is the biggest part of being a house developer and I’m proud of myself to be able to help others in fulfilling their needs.

COVID-19 has disrupted many industries, how did you lead your company through tough times?

Nowadays, many entrepreneurs are trying to survive the pandemic, including myself. I have done several things to help my business avoid closure. One of the ways I did, was to diversify my business and jump into areas with a demand surge. That was how I started my interior design company.

What are some of the lessons or skills you gained as the MAPIA’s Vice President that have enabled you grow as a person?

Taking on MAPIA’s Vice President (VP) role has helped me in more ways than one. Aside from meeting new people, it was a fantastic way to make the most of my university experience. Participating in student club activities has set the stage for me to learn new skills and network with many like-minded people. Leading the club has also improved my self-confidence. Thus, I would always encourage my team members to believe in themselves.

Share with us your entrepreneur tips for fresh graduates who wish to build their own business.

I’m not an expert, but I believe all of you can achieve your goals. When there is a will, there is a way. Never give up even if you do not succeed on your first, second, or third try. Because if you never try, you will never know.

Why did you choose PSB Academy to further your education?

I chose PSB Academy because the campus is excellent. They also partnered with good universities, one of which I have always wanted to enrol in – The University Of Newcastle, Australia. I had great and memorable experiences at PSB Academy!