"So, in essence," I concluded, "we will build a strong digital web. Each website has a specific function, but all of them support each other, interact, and strengthen the Sundawani brand as a group that is not only modern and innovative but also cares for local communities and sustainability. This is the future of our business."
The meeting with the IT team in Singapore grew even more exciting. After outlining my vision for a digital ecosystem centered on local products and communities, I continued with a plan that would change how people move and transact in Southeast Asia.
"Okay, next," I said, "we're going into the transportation and logistics sector. I want the IT team to create Android and iOS mobile apps that we'll call GoTrans."
The engineers and the head of the IT team listened intently, taking down every detail.
"GoTrans will be a versatile platform," I explained. "First, for services like taxis, but using private cars, which we'll call GoCar. The system will be similar to what will emerge in the future, where people can register as drivers with their own cars, and passengers can book through the app."
"This will be a more flexible and affordable transportation solution, especially in crowded major cities," I added. "And it will create many job opportunities for car owners."
"Then, for some Southeast Asian countries," I continued, "there's transport that usually uses motorcycles. We'll call this GoJek. The concept is the same, but for two-wheeled vehicles. This will be very efficient for navigating traffic and for delivering small items."
"Next, there's also a chauffeur service," I said. "This will help consumers who own cars but want to be accompanied or driven by a professional driver. So, they don't need to rent a car, just hire the driver."
"And finally, for this initial phase, we will focus on GoFood," I explained. "Here, we will collaborate with eateries, from large restaurants to small stalls, for online ordering and food delivery. This will greatly help the culinary industry and provide convenience for consumers."
"For this first framework, we'll just focus on these four services for now," I said, pointing to the four names I had just mentioned. "Later, GoTrans will evolve over time, adding other services like cargo logistics, digital payments, and more."
I looked at the IT team, seeing expressions of enthusiasm on their faces. "I'm confident that our application will be very well-received in several countries with high unemployment rates."
"Why is that, Marlon?" asked the head of the development team.
"Because GoTrans will create massive new economic opportunities," I replied. "Thousands, even millions of people can become driver partners or food vendors. This is a direct solution to the problems of unemployment and increasing community income."
I knew that a concept like this would cause friction with the conventional taxi industry and perhaps government regulations. But I had already thought about it.
"Regarding conflicts with conventional industries or regulations, you don't need to worry," I told the team. "Later, there will be a special legal team to negotiate, accompanied by the local governments we've already partnered with. We will find a win-win solution, by emphasizing our positive impact on the economy and job creation."
"For operations," I added, "GoTrans offices will eventually be in several countries."
"Will the headquarters remain in Singapore?" an engineer asked.
"The development headquarters will remain here," I clarified. "But local operational offices must be in each country. And most importantly, we will collaborate with local governments and capitalists in each country. This is to ensure acceptance and smooth operations."
I wanted to make sure the IT team wasn't worried about the funds for this massive promotion and development.
"Don't worry about promotional costs," I said. "Later, in 2009, there will be a very large fresh fund, up to 1 billion USD, specifically for GoTrans promotion and development. So, Sundawani Tech doesn't need to stress about funding. Just focus on developing the best and most stable application."
The IT team nodded with burning enthusiasm. This was a clear, ambitious, and fully supported vision. I knew that GoTrans would become one of the main pillars of the Sundawani business empire, transforming the face of transportation and logistics in Southeast Asia, and creating a significant positive impact for society.
After all the long discussions about the digital ecosystem and the grand GoTrans plan, I re-emphasized one important point to the IT and trust fund teams in Singapore.
"For all the digital products we create, whether it's Bingo.com, Eureka.com, Ulinpedia.com, FolkMarket, or GoTrans and all its services," I said, pointing to the Southeast Asia map on the screen, "I hope Singapore will be our primary test ground."
Mr. Robert frowned. "Singapore, Marlon? Isn't its market relatively small compared to Indonesia or other countries?"
"Precisely, Mr. Robert," I replied. "Precisely because Singapore isn't too large, it's ideal for our pilot project."
I explained my reasons. "Here, we can test application stability, operational efficiency, and market acceptance on a controlled scale. We can see what bugs appear, how users respond, and how effective our marketing strategy is."
"Besides," I continued, "Singapore has an image as a developed, well-organized country with excellent technology infrastructure. If our product succeeds here, its success will be more clearly visible and serve as strong proof that we are ready for larger markets."
"Singapore is like a miniature global market, but with clear regulations and an ecosystem that supports innovation," I added. "Success here will be a strong showcase when we want to expand to other countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, or Vietnam. This will make it easier for us to gain trust from local governments and potential partners."
The team nodded, understanding the strategy behind choosing Singapore as the test bed. This was a smart move to minimize risk and maximize the impact of early success.
"So, focus all our resources on ensuring the launch in Singapore goes smoothly and successfully," I ordered. "Once we have strong data and proven success here, then we will scale up to other countries with more confidence."
After all the mind- and energy-draining discussions were over, I excused myself from the IT company office with the Trust Fund team. It was already late afternoon. I chose to go home, wanting to rest immediately after a full day of grand strategies.
I took a car to the elite residential area in Singapore where we lived. My father had deliberately chosen a house in this area so it would be close to the city center and have complete facilities. The house wasn't as big as our house in Bandung, but it was very modern and comfortable.
As soon as I arrived home, I saw Dad and Sister Putri sitting relaxed in the living room, perhaps having just finished chatting. Dad turned and smiled when I entered.
"How was it, Lon? Is the business discussion over?" Dad asked.
"Yes, Dad," I replied, sprawling on the sofa. "Now it's up to the team to execute."
Sister Putri smiled at me. "You must be really tired, Lon? Always thinking about business."
"Kind of, Sis," I chuckled. "But it's fun. How about you? Are you comfortable here?"
"Very comfortable!" Sister Putri exclaimed. "Especially after knowing about some of 'our' properties here, so there are other activities besides studying."
Dad smiled seeing our interaction. He knew that even though I was busy with global business affairs, I was still Sister Putri's younger brother and his son. That night, the three of us spent time together, sharing light stories about the day. It felt nice, being with family after a full day of thinking about multi-billion dollar acquisitions and global expansion strategies. This was the calm before the big storm of 2008 that we were ready to conquer.
After returning from the trust fund office and the IT company, I immediately went to Sister Putri, who was relaxing in the family room. I knew it was the right time to realize the idea I had briefly discussed with her.
"Sis," I said, "can you please contact Nadia Hutagalung now? Tell her I want to meet her; I have something to discuss business-wise."
Sister Putri was a little surprised by my sudden request. "Now? Is it that important?"
"Very important," I replied with a smile. "This is a good opportunity, Sis."
Sister Putri then took out her phone. Fortunately, Nadia Hutagalung happened to be home as well. Before long, Sister Putri successfully reached her, and Nadia agreed to meet briefly at our house. I felt a little excited.
About fifteen minutes later, Nadia Hutagalung arrived at the house. Sister Putri immediately introduced us formally.
"Kak Nadia, this is my brother, Marlon," Sister Putri said. "Lon, this is Kak Nadia Hutagalung."
I extended my hand. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Kak Nadia. I've heard a lot from Kak Putri; you've been beautiful from way back then until now." I praised Marlon.
Nadia smiled warmly. "You're welcome, Marlon. Putri has also told me a lot about you."
We sat in the living room, and the conversation flowed easily. I got straight to the point.
"Kak Nadia, I'd like to offer you a collaboration," I said. "Sundawani has several products that we want to promote, especially in Indonesia and Southeast Asia."
Nadia frowned. "What products, Marlon? I thought you were focused on technology and property?"
"That's right, that's one of our main focuses. But Sundawani also has a food division," I explained. "We have farms, agriculture, and plantations in Indonesia, and we produce our own processed healthy food products. For example, organic fresh milk, omega-3 chicken eggs, hydroponic vegetables, or specialty coffee from our plantations."
I took out some examples of the products we had prepared. "We would like Kak Nadia to be the brand ambassador for these healthy food products of ours."
Nadia picked up one of the products, looking closely at its label. "Wow, this is very interesting. Healthy products, huh?" She seemed interested. "I'm very careful about my diet and healthy lifestyle. So this is very relevant to my personal brand."
"Of course," I said. "We guarantee the quality and that the production process is hygienic and natural. This isn't just about selling; it's also about educating the public on the importance of consuming healthy local products."
After listening to my further explanation, Nadia smiled. "I'm in, Marlon. These are good products, and it's a noble mission."
My heart felt relieved. Getting Nadia Hutagalung as a brand ambassador for our healthy food products was an excellent first step. Her clean reputation and health-conscious image would be very helpful.
It didn't stop there; I also discussed future plans.
"Besides these healthy food products, Kak Nadia," I said, "later in 2009, when some of our IT products enter a massive marketing phase, we'd like to collaborate with Kak Nadia again."
Nadia looked curious. "IT products? What kind of products?"
"It's called GoTrans," I replied. "We plan to launch the GoTrans application and other digital ecosystems in Singapore and several Southeast Asian countries. We'd like Kak Nadia to be our primary brand ambassador for GoTrans in Singapore and across Southeast Asia."
Nadia seemed to think for a moment. This was a much bigger offer.
"That will be a very massive project, Marlon," Nadia said. "I'll need time to consider this, as its scope is very broad."
"Of course," I said. "But I'm very confident that Kak Nadia is the right person. Kak Nadia has a wide reach, credibility, and an image that can be accepted in various Southeast Asian countries. This will be an industry-changing collaboration."
We continued to chat, discussing the details of this potential collaboration. I saw great interest in Nadia's eyes. She knew this was a big opportunity for her too. Sister Putri also listened intently, seemingly proud of her brother and friend.
The evening ended with a positive initial agreement. Nadia would start by endorsing our healthy food products and would seriously consider becoming our global brand ambassador in the technology sector starting in 2009. Step by step, I began placing my strategic pawns on the global chessboard.
After the intense business meetings, my father and I decided to take three days to enjoy Singapore. We needed a little relaxation before returning to the upcoming business hustle.
On the first day, we tried the famous Hainanese Chicken Rice in Singapore. Its taste was truly authentic and delicious, living up to many recommendations. After that, we visited Gardens by the Bay, a beautiful futuristic park. The Supertree Grove with its lights at night was truly captivating. My father greatly enjoyed the scenery there.
On the second day, I took my father to Marina Bay Sands. We went up to the SkyPark Observation Deck, enjoying the dazzling view of Singapore city from above. Its infinity pool was also iconic. In the afternoon, we took a stroll through Chinatown, enjoying the lively and authentic atmosphere.
During those two days of exploring, I was often accompanied by Nadia Hutagalung. We became closer, chatting about many things, from business to personal life. Nadia turned out to be a very pleasant and intelligent person. I felt very attracted to her, despite our 18-year age difference. Unfortunately, I knew she was married, but still, I would try to approach her in a subtle and respectful way. I felt a strong connection between us, and I didn't want to miss this opportunity.
We visited the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a very beautiful and tranquil tropical garden. We also had a chance to see Merlion Park, Singapore's famous icon. In the evening, we enjoyed the atmosphere of Clarke Quay, a riverside area bustling with restaurants and bars.
This short vacation was very enjoyable. My father and I felt refreshed, and I also grew closer to Nadia. I knew this relationship might be complicated, but I couldn't deny my attraction to her. I would try to approach her carefully, while remaining focused on Sundawani's business and grand plans.
After three days packed with business meetings and a short holiday in Singapore, it was time for my father and me to return to Bandung. That morning, as we were preparing at home, I took the opportunity to see Nadia Hutagalung. I wanted to say goodbye to her in person.
We found a slightly secluded corner in the house, away from my sister and father, so we could talk alone.
"Thank you very much, Kak Nadia, for accompanying us during our stay here," I said sincerely. "The holiday became much more enjoyable."
Nadia smiled. "You're welcome, Marlon. I enjoyed it too. It's rare to have someone to talk to who thinks like you."
We fell silent for a moment, enjoying the comfortable quiet between us. There was an invisible energy flowing, filling the space between the two of us. I felt that we were truly very compatible, there was a strong connection that transcended age and status differences.
"I have to go to the airport soon," I said, breaking the silence. "My flight is shortly."
Nadia nodded. "Take care on your way, Marlon. See you again."
As I turned to leave, Nadia stepped closer. Whether it was because of the conducive atmosphere, or because we genuinely felt a strong connection, the moment seemed to slow down. She looked at me, and I looked at her. Then, without many words, we kissed. It was an unexpected farewell kiss, soft, yet meaningful, ending our encounter in a way I never anticipated.
After that, I hurried away, getting into the waiting car. My mind was still lingering on that brief kiss. It was an unexpected moment, considering Nadia was married. But for some reason, it felt completely natural.
Upon arriving in Bandung, although distance separated us, Nadia and I remained in touch. We started chatting frequently, talking about many things. Not just about the upcoming business, but also personal matters, about our days, about what we felt. Our communication became more intense, and with every message, I could feel that the closeness between us deepened.
This was the beginning of a new, complicated chapter in my life. On one hand, I was busy with Sundawani's grand plans that would shake the world. On the other, there was a growing feeling for Nadia, a woman who was already committed, yet somehow felt incredibly compatible with me.
Time continued to pass. The holiday was over, and school routine returned to normal. I resumed my role as a student at SMA 5, although behind the scenes, my mind was filled with global business strategies and financial market turmoil. My relationship with Nadia also continued, albeit only as intense chats.
However, amidst all that busy-ness, fate delivered another devastating blow.
Mid-2008, the news I feared most finally arrived. My father passed away.
This blow was truly crushing and unexpected, even though I knew my father had a history of poor health in my original future. But in this timeline, everything felt so sudden. Losing my grandmother and grandfather had already been difficult, but losing my father... that was my turning point.
My father was my main foundation in this world, the only one who knew about my peculiarities, and the only one who fully believed in my vision. He was a business colleague, a partner in crime, and the one with whom I shared all my burdens. Now, in this world, I was left alone with my rebirth knowledge. There was no one else I could talk to about the impending financial crisis or the plans to build the Sundawani empire.
Our family was immediately engulfed in deep sorrow. My mother cried incessantly, and Sister Putri immediately flew home from Singapore upon hearing the news. The house, usually bustling with laughter, was now filled with a solemn atmosphere of sadness.
As for me... I felt empty. My brain, usually full of calculations and strategies, seemed to have stopped working. I felt paralyzed. I didn't go to school for a full week. I just stayed home, alone in my room, trying to process this bitter reality. The world felt so silent without my father's presence.
This was the hardest test I had experienced since being reborn. How would I continue all of Sundawani's grand plans without my father by my side? The burden felt incredibly heavy.
The news of my father's passing struck like lightning out of a clear sky, not just for me, but for the entire family. Sister Putri, who was busy with her medical studies in Singapore, immediately felt the same shock. Without hesitation, she promptly arranged her return.
Fortunately, Sister Putri managed to get the earliest flight. She arrived in Bandung quickly, just as we were preparing for the funeral. Her tears flowed incessantly upon seeing my father's lifeless body. I could feel her profound grief.
"Dad..." Sister Putri's voice choked, her hand caressing my father's pale face.