【GMBA】ABC Program Recap: Jakarta, Indonesia
國際事務室暨GMBA辦公室
撰文者/GMBA學生 LISA ANGERENI 符慧詩
The ABC (Asian Business Consulting) Program took place in Jakarta, Indonesia, bringing together students and faculty from Solbridge University (Korea), Prasetya Mulya University (Indonesia), and GMBA students from National Taiwan University (Taiwan). The program aimed to provide a rich learning experience immersed in the business culture of Indonesia while fostering cross-cultural understanding and insights into Asian business contexts.
Throughout the program, participants engaged in various activities including company visits, business meetings, networking sessions with local business leaders, and discussions from professors representing each partner university. The program’s structure allowed for a comprehensive exploration of business practices in Indonesia, as well as issues related to cross-cultural management, innovation, and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Day 1
The ABC Program in Indonesia commenced with a warm welcome from Prasetya Mulya University’s Dean and professors, setting the stage for an engaging and immersive experience.
The morning began with a vibrant Indonesian dance performance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the host country. Participants indulged in a delightful array of Indonesian snacks, experiencing the country’s culinary delights firsthand.
Following the cultural immersion, participants embarked on a campus tour, gaining insights into Prasetya Mulya University’s facilities and academic environment. To enhance the consulting experience, the organizers introduced a competitive element, with 36 participants divided into teams of six, two teams assigned to each of the three challenging projects from prominent local companies: Shabu Hachi, SASC, and Kopi Sunyi. Group discussions provided an opportunity for students and professors to exchange ideas and set the tone for collaborative learning.
In the afternoon, participants enjoyed a leisurely lunch on campus before venturing to their first company visit at Vivere Group. Representatives from Vivere Group provided a comprehensive presentation, offering insights into the company’s operations and industry landscape. Subsequently, participants visited Shabu Hachi for dinner, where they engaged in discussions on problem-solving strategies, providing valuable recommendations to address challenges faced by the company.
Day 2
The second day of the ABC Program began early to accommodate a packed schedule, with two company visits planned for the day. Navigating Jakarta’s notorious congestion, participants arrived at the business center where they convened at a café known for its traditional Indonesian herb drinks, Acaraki. Divided into groups, the first batch proceeded to SASC, prioritized due to its limited capacity. As they waited, students engaged in networking opportunities, leveraging the diverse backgrounds of their fellow participants. The enthusiasm was palpable as the second batch joined, eagerly engaging in conversations with the company representatives.
Following the informative visit, participants gathered for a group photo at an iconic location within the business center, capturing the spirit of collaboration and exploration. Without a break for lunch, the group transitioned seamlessly to their next destination: Kopi Sunyi, a unique deaf café within the food and beverage industry.
Upon arrival, participants were ushered into a dedicated indoor area set up for the company visit. Immersed in the café’s environment, participants had the opportunity to observe firsthand the challenges faced by the business. Eager to delve deeper, groups engaged in discussions with the owner and baristas, gaining valuable insights into the operations and unique aspects of the café.
The presentation by the owner provided further context, shedding light on the café’s mission and innovative approaches to inclusivity. Additionally, participants had the unique opportunity to learn basic sign language from one of the baristas, further enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the café’s ethos.
Day 3
The host university treated participants to an enriching cultural excursion at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. The day commenced with participants divided into two groups, each embarking on a unique exploration of Indonesian heritage.
One group immersed themselves in the intricate art of Batik, a traditional Indonesian textile craft. Participants had the opportunity to create their own Batik designs, selecting images and applying wax to fabric, providing a hands-on experience steeped in cultural tradition. Meanwhile, the other group delved into the rich history of Batik at the Museum Batik Indonesia, gaining insights into its significance and evolution over time.
Following these immersive experiences, participants gathered to indulge in snacks and beverages made from fermented cassava, savoring the diverse flavors of Indonesian cuisine. The group then convened to witness a captivating performance of the signature Dayak dance, showcasing the vibrant cultural diversity of Indonesia.
Despite the rainy weather, participants were treated to a cinematic journey showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and seascapes of Indonesia, offering a glimpse into the country’s natural beauty. Before concluding the day’s activities, participants had the opportunity to explore a local gift store, adding to the cultural immersion experience. The day culminated in a return to campus, where participants engaged in group discussions aimed at addressing the challenges faced by each company visited, integrating their cultural experiences into problem-solving strategies.
Day 4
Day 4 offered participants a flexible schedule, allowing them to tailor their activities according to their preferences. Groups had the option to either revisit companies for further information gathering or engage in discussions on campus to finalize their presentations.
Some groups opted to revisit companies, seizing the opportunity to delve deeper into specific aspects of their projects. These visits provided valuable insights and additional data directly from the company owners, enhancing the quality of their presentations. Others chose to convene at a café, utilizing the relaxed atmosphere to discuss and refine their presentations. This informal setting encouraged open dialogue and collaboration, enabling groups to consolidate their findings and ideas effectively.
In addition, some groups ventured out to experience the local culture, indulging in traditional Indonesian cuisine such as Nasi Padang—a flavorful rice dish—and exploring the historic streets of Jakarta’s Old Town at Sarinah. These experiences not only provided a break from the rigorous academic schedule but also offered valuable insights into Indonesian lifestyle and heritage.
Throughout the day, participants exhibited enthusiasm and dedication as they worked towards delivering their best presentations. Day 4 served as a testament to the program’s emphasis on autonomy and self-directed learning, empowering participants to make the most of their experience in Indonesia.
Day 5
Last day marked the culmination of the ABC Program, as all groups prepared to present their solutions to the challenges posed by the companies. With the presentations scheduled after lunch, participants were given the morning to finalize their discussions and polish their presentations. The tension in the air was palpable as groups worked diligently to ensure their solutions were comprehensive and well-presented.
Professors provided invaluable guidance and support, helping to alleviate some of the nervous energy and offering last-minute advice to ensure each group’s success. When it came time to present, participants showcased their hard work and dedication, delivering insightful solutions that impressed both their peers and the company owners.
Despite the high quality of the presentations, the task of choosing a winner proved challenging for the company owners, underscoring the depth of talent and creativity among the participants. The atmosphere was one of excitement and anticipation as each group shared their innovative solutions, demonstrating the collaborative spirit and determination fostered throughout the program.
To celebrate the conclusion of the program, a farewell dinner was held at a traditional Indonesian restaurant, providing participants with the opportunity to savor the flavors of Indonesian cuisine and reflect on their experiences. As the evening drew to a close, participants bid farewell to their newfound friends and colleagues, concluding the ABC Program with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the invaluable lessons learned during their time in Indonesia.