Stories: Communities

The Kapuas River winds through West Kalimantan, sustaining the villagers who live along its banks. Among them is Syahrul Gunawan, a young man with dreams beyond the river.

Born to a family of fishermen, Syahrul’s childhood was simple. Yet, a different current pulled at his heart – becoming a mechanic. A scholarship transformed his life, taking him from the fishing boats of his village to the cutting-edge technology of the palm oil industry, proving that with grit and the right opportunities, dreams can come true.

Growing up by the river

Syahrul’s earliest memories are of the Kapuas River’s gentle flow. Born into a close-knit family of fishermen in Madang Permai, he learned the ways of the river from a young age. The river was not just a source of sustenance; it was the community’s lifeline.

His father, a seasoned fisherman, taught him the skills needed to navigate the river and find the best fishing spots. For his family, fishing was more than a livelihood; it was a tradition passed down through generations.

Despite the contentment found in this simple life, Syahrul yearned for something more. While his family found peace in fishing, Syahrul was captivated by machines. He would spend hours watching the mechanics in the nearby palm oil mills, fascinated by their ability to transform raw materials into something valuable. This sparked a passion in him that the river could not quell.

Facing the wall

Syahrul’s dream was clear: he wanted to become a mechanic. To him, the palm oil industry was fascinating and a path to a better future for his family.

However, the dream seemed distant. The cost of mechanical engineering education and the distance to the nearest college in Pontianak City, 500 kilometers away, posed major challenges.

But Syahrul’s spirit was unyielding. As he fished with his father, he silently resolved to make his dreams a reality.

A ray of hope: The scholarship

Amid these challenges, a glimmer of hope appeared. News spread through the village that Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food, through its subsidiary PT Kartika Prima Cipta, was offering scholarships to students in Kapuas Hulu Regency. The scholarship promised to cover tuition fees and living expenses – a crucial support for students with big dreams.

When the results were declared, joy and relief followed. Syahrul had been chosen as the recipient of the PT KPC scholarship. This would allow him to study Mechanical Engineering at the Pontianak State Polytechnic, with all costs covered.

A new chapter: College life

Syahrul embarked on the 10-hour journey to Pontianak City, feeling both excited and nervous. College life was vastly different from his life in the village, but he embraced it eagerly.

“The first few days were overwhelming,” he admits. “But the support from Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food made all the difference. Besides the financial aid, they cared about my growth and well-being. The capacity-building sessions helped build my confidence.”

Syahrul thrived in his new environment as he excelled in his studies and made friends from diverse backgrounds, making college life one of the most cherished times of his life.

From a student to a professional

Four years of college flew by, and Syahrul graduated with good grades. “With the scholarship’s support, I could focus on studying. At the same time, I felt a sense of belonging and purpose,” Syahrul said.

With his diploma, Syahrul secured a position as a mechanical technician at Belian Mill, part of Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food. Starting in general maintenance, he soon was promoted to handle critical boiler machines. The responsibility was immense, but he thrived.“I am very happy because my wish came true,” Syahrul says. “Now, I can support my family while doing what I love in an industry I want to be in. I want to keep learning and developing. Luckily, my team and superiors are very supportive.”

Now, as he advances in his career, Syahrul dreams of giving back. He often visits his village to reconnect and inspire other young people, showing them that with determination, they too can achieve their dreams.

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