Business man and philantropist, Dato’ Sri Prof. DR. Dr. (HC) Tahir, M.B.A., gave a general lecture themed ‘Successful Enterpreneur’ to over 100 students of UGM on Friday (13/5) in the Civil and Environment Engineering Department. He encouraged the students to be a person with vision and contribution.
“Only the visionary can change the world. Hard work only is not enough. Hard work is the minimum requirement, but visionary people have more than that,” he said.
His success in business from below has inspired students. He recounted the story of his childhood which was impoverised, forcing him to work to get some income since his teenage. But his vision made him want to always challenge himself to the limit until he earned success.
He challenged the students to set their vision to achieve in the next few years and keep finding added value in life.
“Western people say be yourself, do your passion. But there is one thing more important than that, responsibility. Human being live on responsibility, not taste,” he said.
The next stage is to improve abilities with knowledge to become an expert in their areas of choice. The highest level to achieve is someone with vision as this is an important capital to start a business and everyday life.
Furthermore, he encouraged the students to contribute to society. Becoming an entrepreneur is not only building a company and reap income for oneself, but becoming a blessing for others, too.
“Life is not about economic analysis on cost and benefit. An entrepreneur has to be able to become a blessing for others,” he added.
Tahir’s commitment and attention to social issues are well known. This was one of the reasons for the Doctor Honoris Causa degree being granted by UGM early this year. His contribution to education in Indonesia also made him elected in the UGM Board of Trustees.
In the general lecture, Prof. Tahir extended hid appreciation and gratitude to be part of UGM. Rector of UGM, Prof. Ir. Dwikorita Karnawati, M.Sc., Ph.D appreciated his visit that has inspired the students. “We need the existence of Prof. Tahir to be an inspiration and to motivate. He is one of the role models for us to change and become a productive country,” she said.