Loss That Strengthens
High school years are often filled with dreams and
hopes, but for me, those years were also marked by deep sorrow. My father, the
figure who had always been my role model, was suddenly called by the Almighty.
His passing left a deep wound, not only in my heart but also in our family. My
mother, who had been the pillar of our family, had to face this bitter reality
alone. In her despair, she tried to rebuild her life by remarrying, but
unfortunately, that marriage did not last. This new chapter added more burdens,
especially when my mother had to support a half-sibling. However, after facing
various trials, she decided to return to us, her children, and rebuild our
family, despite the scars that remained.
I consider myself fortunate because, during the
loss of my father, I still had an uncle and aunt from my late father's side who
cared deeply for me. They not only provided moral support but also gave me
immeasurable love, making me feel that I had never truly lost parental figures.
Dreams Amidst Uncertainty
After graduating from high school, I knew that the
future would not be easy. However, I was determined to change my fate. I
decided to pursue higher education in the hope of improving my family's
situation. Universitas Palangka Raya became my choice, and I chose to study
Law. The college years were not easy, but I never gave up. I graduated in 2007
with great hopes in my heart.
However, reality does not always align with
expectations. After graduation, I faced unexpected challenges. Despite sending
out numerous job applications, I could not secure a job. Eight months passed in
uncertainty, making me feel like life had no direction. I knew that returning
home empty-handed was not an option. I was determined not to become a burden to
my family.
A Turning Point in the
Cooperative World
The turning point came when my uncle invited me to
join Koperasi CU Betang Asi. Even though it was just as a volunteer without
pay, I saw this as an opportunity not to be missed. In 2008, I applied for a
staff position at CU Betang Asi, and through hard work and prayer, I was
accepted. I began my career as an intern on December 1, 2008, at the
headquarters of Koperasi CU Betang Asi on Jl. Tjilik Riwut KM 1 Palangka Raya.
This was the first step in a long journey I was about to embark on.
The Long Journey of Building a
Career
I never expected that my career at CU Betang Asi
would develop as it did. On March 1, 2009, I was promoted to a probationary
staff position for two years. Just a few months later, on June 1, 2009, I was
made a permanent staff member and stationed at CU Betang Asi TP Penyang
Hatampung office in Tumbang Malahoi Village. There, I served as a financial
staff member for six months before being transferred to TPK Talaken on November
2, 2009.
Transfers became a part of my life. On March 15,
2010, I received another assignment as a financial staff member at TPK Talaken.
Only three months later, on June 21, 2010, I was transferred back to TP Penyang
Hatampung. This experience taught me the importance of flexibility and adaptability
in work.
On July 25, 2011, I received my first promotion as
the Coordinator of TPK Jabiren. Greater responsibilities awaited, but I
accepted them with enthusiasm. I remained in this position for nearly a year
before, on April 2, 2012, I was assigned a new role as the Head of the Credit
Department at TP Penyang Hinje Simpei in Pulang Pisau. Here, I undertook the
challenging task of serving members all the way to Mantangai Village, before a
definitive CU office was established there at TPK Mantangai at that time. For
12 years, I dedicated myself to this role, collecting deposits, and conducting
loan surveys for members.
Becoming a Leader at Antang Tawur
The year 2022 was filled with achievements for me.
On July 7, 2022, I was promoted to Manager of the Antang Tawur Branch Office.
Although this was not the highest position in the CU Betang Asi organization,
it was a significant milestone in my life. I also knew that this responsibility
would be heavy and was not the end of the journey, but rather the beginning of
new challenges. During the first six months of my tenure, I focused on
adjusting to the new environment, building relationships, and strategizing on
how to develop CU Betang Asi.
Through hard work and dedication, my team and I
managed to increase the number of members by more than 12%. In 2023, the Antang
Tawur Branch Office received the award for the best branch office, and by July
2024, during the consolidated AGM, I represented my team to receive a
certificate of achievement for being the branch office with the best
performance, based on new member recruitment.
Challenges and Trials Behind
Success
However, behind all this success, there were many
obstacles and trials to face. The pressures and demands for greater
professionalism from the leaders often made me feel, honestly... overwhelmed.
But I always tried to give my best. For me, the progress of CU Betang Asi was
the top priority, especially at the Antang Tawur Branch Office.
I constantly prayed that this service could
continue, and that my team would remain united. I realized that the journey was
not perfect, and there might still be many things to improve. However, I felt
that I had given my best within my capacity and ability. For me, working at CU
Betang Asi was a calling that had to be carried out with full responsibility.
Family and Prayers
Amidst all the busyness, I never forgot my family.
I married in 2011 to a woman from Kasongan and was blessed with two beautiful
daughters. Although I often had to be away from my family due to work demands,
I always made time for them. For me, family is an invaluable source of
strength.
I express my gratitude for the trust that CU Betang
Asi has given me all this time. I know that the journey is still long, and
there are many targets to be achieved. Trials and obstacles are certainly
present, but all of this is part of the path that God Almighty has set. I
believe that all these challenges are blessings that must be accepted with an
open heart.
Conclusion
This is my journey to this very moment. I want to
share with all of you who read my story, stay steadfast in prayer, be patient,
and keep fighting. The finish line is still far ahead. From a boy who lost his
father at a young age to becoming a manager at one of the largest cooperatives
in Central Kalimantan, I have been through a lot, shaping me into a strong
person. Despite the many challenges, I always believe that every step I take is
part of a greater plan that God has laid out. And with every step, I strive to give
my best, for myself, my family, and the community I serve.
Thank you very much.