VINANSIA.COM - Ilham Akbar Habibie, born on May 16, 1963, in Aachen, West Germany, is the eldest son of former Indonesian President B.J. Habibie and his wife, Hasri Ainun Besari Habibie. Ilham is recognized as a technocrat and businessman actively involved in various sectors, including aviation and international business.

Educational Background

Ilham Habibie spent nearly 31 years of his life in Germany, following in his father’s educational and professional footsteps. His education began at Elementary School Windmuehlenweg in Hamburg, Germany, from 1969 to 1973. He then attended High School Hochrad, also in Hamburg, from 1973 to 1981.

After completing his secondary education, Ilham pursued his studies at the Technical University of Munich, Germany, in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, specializing in Aeronautical Engineering, from 1981 to 1986. 

In 1987, he earned his Diploma Ingenieur from the same university with Cum Laude honors. He furthered his education by obtaining a Doctor Ingenieur degree from the Technical University of Munich in 1994, graduating Summa Cum Laude.

In addition to his formal education in Germany, Ilham enhanced his knowledge in international business. In 1999, he participated in the International Executive Program at INSEAD, located in Fontainebleau, France, and Singapore. This program, designed for international executives, provided him with valuable insights into the global business arena.

Career

Ilham Habibie boasts a robust educational background in engineering and business. Following his studies, he worked at an aircraft manufacturing company and served as Director of Marketing at PT Dirgantara Indonesia until 2022. Alongside his professional achievements, Ilham has been active in several organizations. 

He has served as Chairman of the Indonesian Scholars Association (ICMI) and Chairman of the Indonesian Muslim Businessmen Association, as well as head of the Research and Technology Board of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN).

Ilham is also the founder and owner of Ilthabi Rekatama, a company involved in the industrial sector. Through PT Regio Aviasi Industri, he spearheaded the Regio Prop Program, a domestic commercial aircraft project developed from the N-250. He collaborated with Erry Firmansyah, former President Director of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), to establish this company.

Personal Life

Ilham Habibie married Insana Abdul Aziz in 1987 in Jakarta. Their wedding was celebrated with Gorontalo traditions, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Habibie family from Kabila, Gorontalo. The couple has three children: Nadia Habibie, Muhammad Pasha Nur Fauzan Habibie, and Tifani Mutiarahati Rahima Tahira Habibie.

Political Involvement

In 2024, Ilham Habibie entered the political arena as a candidate for Governor of West Java. The Nasdem Party officially endorsed him as a prospective Governor or Deputy Governor candidate for the region. Despite his sudden foray into politics, Ilham views this as an opportunity to contribute more broadly to the people of West Java and to continue the legacy of service inherited from his father.

Ilham has stated that his decision to engage in politics was spontaneous and unplanned. He sees this as a chance to make a more significant impact on the community and to carry forward his father's spirit of dedication.

Recognition and Awards

Ilham Habibie has received several awards and recognitions for his work. Among them is the Satyalancana Wira Karya, an honor from the Indonesian government recognizing outstanding performance in various fields.

In conclusion, Ilham Akbar Habibie is a technocrat and businessman with a strong educational foundation in engineering and business. He is active in various organizations and companies and has recently ventured into politics as a gubernatorial candidate for West Java. With his expertise and experience, Ilham aims to continue his father’s legacy of service and contribute significantly to Indonesian society.