Peter Sondakh

Early Life and Family

Peter Sondakh was born in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia, in 1953. His father was an exporter of wood and coconut oil. After his father's death when Peter was 20, he took over the family business, which provided his early foothold in the business world.

Rise to Success

Sondakh's entrepreneurial journey began when he took over his family's business at the age of 20, after his father's death. He expanded the business and, at 22, founded PT Rajawali Corpora in 1984. Rajawali Corpora became a significant investment group with diverse interests. Sondakh's success included founding RCTI, Indonesia's first private television station, and developing the Express Group taxi company. He also took over the cigarette company Bentoel Group and made it profitable.

Key Business Strategies

Sondakh is known for his strategic moves, including divesting from certain businesses to reinforce his capital. He has demonstrated a knack for identifying and capitalizing on opportunities, whether turning around state-owned enterprises or entering emerging sectors like palm oil. He is also known for acquiring and developing properties, including luxury hotels.

Philanthropy

In 2004, Sondakh founded the Rajawali Foundation (RF) as the philanthropic arm of Rajawali Corpora. The foundation supports research, education, and training to promote peace and prosperity and to conserve Indonesia's natural heritage.