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Aburizal BakrieEntrepreneur, politician
Date of Birth: 15.11.1946
Country:  Indonesia |
Content:
- Aburizal Bakrie: A Titan in Business and Politics
- Family Business and Entrepreneurial Accomplishments
- Political Forays and Ministerial Roles
- Minster of People's Welfare and Charitable Initiatives
- Return to Golkar and Parliamentary Leadership
- Controversy and Investigations
- Presidential Ambitions and Later Career
Aburizal Bakrie: A Titan in Business and Politics
Early Life and EducationAburizal Bakrie, born into a prominent Indonesian family, spent his formative years in Jakarta. He pursued his higher education at the Bandung Institute of Technology, specializing in electrical engineering, graduating in 1973.
Family Business and Entrepreneurial Accomplishments
Inheriting a business empire founded by his father, Achmad Bakrie, Bakrie joined the family conglomerate, PT Bakrie & Brothers Tbk, in 1972. The company's diversified portfolio included agriculture, real estate, trade, transportation, banking, insurance, manufacturing, construction, and mining. Bakrie rose through the ranks, becoming the company's chairman in 1999.
Political Forays and Ministerial Roles
Bakrie's influence extended beyond the business realm. He served as chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry from 1994 to 2004. In 2004, he ran for president as a member of the Golkar party.
Following his unsuccessful presidential bid, Bakrie joined the government as Minister of Economy under President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. His tenure was marked by a focus on poverty reduction and fuel price regulation.
Minster of People's Welfare and Charitable Initiatives
In 2005, Bakrie was appointed Minister of People's Welfare. He launched a significant welfare program, providing assistance to 6 million poor households with a budget of $1.52 billion.
Return to Golkar and Parliamentary Leadership
In 2009, Bakrie became the chairman of the Golkar party. He successfully forged a coalition to gain majority control in parliament in 2010, positioning himself as the coalition leader.
Controversy and Investigations
Bakrie's career has been marred by controversy surrounding the eruption of a mud volcano in Sidoarjo, East Java, in 2006. Located near a Bakrie family-owned company, the eruption caused significant damage and loss of life. While the company attributed it to an earthquake, allegations of mismanagement by PT Lapindo Brantas persisted. Investigations concluded without definitive findings.
Presidential Ambitions and Later Career
In 2012, Bakrie announced his intention to contest the 2014 presidential election. However, he withdrew his candidacy, citing health reasons. He subsequently continued his involvement in business, politics, and charitable work.
