The Journey of Dreams

People & Communities

Growing up in a small town in Indonesia, a young man named Kelik Jatmiko faced the harsh realities of life. Raised in a humble household, Kelik's dreams of pursuing higher education seemed distant and almost unattainable. However, his unwavering determination and passion for learning kept his hopes alive.

As fate would have it, Kelik stumbled upon a scholarship opportunity from Wilmar Indonesia, called the Wilmar Indonesia Scholarship (WIS), a programme aimed at supporting talented individuals from underprivileged backgrounds. Despite the daunting competition from close to 400 applicants, Kelik's perseverance and hard work paid off. His application, filled with passion and potential, stood out among the rest, and he was awarded the scholarship that would shape his future.

This opportunity was a turning point in his life, as it not only covered his educational expenses but also provided him with living allowances, mentorship, and practical training. Kelik chose to study at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences (INSTIPER) in Yogyakarta, where he excelled in his studies and gained invaluable industry experience through internships and on-the-job training at Wilmar's facilities. 

Reflecting on his journey, Kelik shared, "Alhamdullilah, my dreams of owning a house came true. I could also buy a vehicle and support my brother’s education."

Kelik's journey was not a solitary one. Another scholarship recipient, Surya Purnawan Ganda, also found his path transformed by the WIS programme. Originally from Palembang, Surya had been accepted into a private university for mining engineering. However, he saw a brighter future in the palm oil industry and decided to pursue the Wilmar scholarship. For Surya, the scholarship was more than just financial support; it marked the beginning of a life-changing adventure. 

Surya fondly recalled, "The scholarship gave me unforgettable experiences. It was my first time traveling to the island of Java and flying on an airplane."

Both Kelik and Surya graduated from INSTIPER in 2017 and began their careers at Wilmar. Over the years, they not only improved their own lives but also contributed positively to the company and the industry. Kelik, now a supervisor in the Environment Health and Safety (EHS) department at PT Wilmar Nabati Indonesia, Gresik, reflects on how education and the scholarship he received have enabled him to become the person he always dreamed he would be when he was a child. Surya, now a Head Process Engineer at PT Multimas Nabati Asahan, Serang, values the unforgettable experiences and the professional growth he has achieved. 

The Wilmar Indonesia Scholarship programme, running for over a decade, has empowered many like Kelik and Surya to realise their potential, achieve their dreams, and uplift their communities. As Erlina Panitri, Head of Human Capital at Wilmar Indonesia, aptly puts it, “Education is a powerful tool that can change lives. We strive to help open doors to growth and success."

Kelik's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of opportunities. His journey from a small town to becoming a supervisor at a leading company is a beacon of hope for many young individuals facing similar challenges. It reminds us that with determination, hard work, and the right support, dreams can indeed become a reality. 

Surya's story, too, is a shining example of how stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing new opportunities can lead to remarkable growth and success. His decision to switch from mining engineering to the palm oil industry, supported by the WIS programme, opened doors to a fulfilling career and a bright future. 

The WIS programme continues to inspire and support countless young talents, fostering a new generation of leaders who are not only skilled professionals, but also compassionate individuals committed to making a positive impact on their communities. The stories of Kelik and Surya are just two among many that highlight the profound difference that education and opportunity can make in a person's life. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded of the importance of investing in education and providing opportunities for those who need them the most. The ripple effect of such investments extends far beyond individual success, contributing to the growth and development of entire communities and nations.