VINANSIA.COM - Sugianto Kusuma, commonly known as Aguan, was born in Palembang, South Sumatra, on January 10, 1951. He attended the Chinese Secondary School Jugang Zhongxue in Palembang. 

Although his education was not directly related to business, he demonstrated a strong aptitude and interest in financial management and administration.

Early Career 

Before embarking on his business career, Aguan worked as a warehouse keeper and cleaner at an import company. 

This role provided him with foundational experience in financial management and company administration. Additionally, he developed skills in managing resources effectively.

A pivotal moment in Aguan’s career occurred when he encountered a building contractor who had recently lost money gambling and lacked the funds to continue his business. 

Aguan provided capital to this contractor to develop retail properties under a profit-sharing arrangement. This experience introduced him to the construction business and sparked his interest in property development.

Founding of Agung Sedayu Group

In 1971, Aguan leveraged his newfound interest and experience to establish his own property business by founding Agung Sedayu Group (ASG). Initially focusing on home and retail construction, ASG expanded significantly over time, establishing itself as a major player in the Indonesian property market. 

One of its notable achievements was the development of Indonesia's first integrated electronics shopping center, Harco Mangga Dua, in 1991.

Business Diversification

In 2021, PT Multi Artha Pratama (MAP) acquired an 80% stake in PT Pratama Abadi Nusa Industri Tbk (PANI), which was subsequently renamed PT Pantai Indah Kapuk Dua Tbk (PIK 2). 

Under Aguan’s leadership, PANI diversified its operations, enhancing the property developments of both Agung Sedayu Group and the Salim Group.

Wealth and Recognition

As of 2018, Globe Asia estimated Aguan’s wealth at USD 970 million, approximately IDR 14 trillion. His contributions to the investment landscape, particularly in the new capital city, Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), have been frequently acknowledged by President Joko Widodo.

Role in IKN

Aguan has been instrumental in leading a domestic investor consortium in the IKN area, with an investment of IDR 20 trillion. President Jokowi has publicly expressed gratitude for Aguan’s significant contributions to the IKN project.

Philanthropy

Beyond his business achievements, Aguan and his wife, Lin Liping, are active in social causes. They support impoverished communities in Jakarta and are associated with the Tzu Chi Foundation, which operates a prominent facility in Pantai Indah Kapuk.