Billionaire Profile
Peter Sondakh
Global Rank
#1234

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Peter Sondakh

CEO, Rajawali Corpora
ID
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.2B
As of December 2025
Age
75
Source
Investments
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
ID

Biography

Peter Sondakh is a prominent Indonesian businessman and the head of Rajawali Corpora, an investment firm founded in 1984. With an estimated net worth of $3.2 billion as of 2024, Sondakh's wealth stems from diverse investments across sectors like hotels, media, and mining. Sondakh's career began after his father's death, and he has since built a significant business empire. He is known for his strategic investments and for starting Indonesia's first private TV station, RCTI. Sondakh has also been recognized for his social initiatives, including the Express Taxis program, which helps drivers own their vehicles.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Peter Sondakh was born on June 23, 1953, in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. He grew up in a family of entrepreneurs; his father was an exporter of wood and coconut oil. Sondakh took over his family's business at a young age after his father passed away.

Rise to Success

Sondakh's journey in the business world began with the expansion of his family's business, later establishing PT Rajawali Wira Bhakti Utama in 1984, which became the foundation of Rajawali Corpora. He identified opportunities in various sectors, including property, media, and mining. In 1987, Sondakh founded RCTI, Indonesia's first private television network. This venture helped him to become a leading figure in the Indonesian business scene.

Key Business Strategies

Sondakh is known for his ability to identify and capitalize on business opportunities. He has been involved in various strategic investments. His company, Rajawali Corpora, has expanded into sectors such as telecommunications, hotels, and mining, including owning the Four Seasons in Jakarta and the St. Regis in Jakarta and Bali. Sondakh has also demonstrated a knack for turning around businesses, such as PT Bentoel.

Philanthropy

In 2004, Sondakh established the Rajawali Foundation as the philanthropic arm of Rajawali Corpora. He is also known for his social initiatives, such as the Express Taxis program.

Career Milestones

1975

Took over family business

Took over his family's business after his father died. The business was in the wood and coconut oil export industry.

1984

Founded Rajawali Corpora

Founded PT Rajawali Wira Bhakti Utama, which later became Rajawali Corpora, an investment firm.

1987

Founded RCTI

Co-founded RCTI, Indonesia's first private television network.

2004

Established Rajawali Foundation

Established the Rajawali Foundation as the philanthropic arm of Rajawali Corpora.

2023

Sold Golden Eagle Energy

Sold his nearly 84% stake in Indonesian coal mining outfit Golden Eagle Energy.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Rajawali Foundation

Undisclosed

Devoted to providing scholarships across Asia

Social

Express Taxis Program

Undisclosed

An ownership scheme wherein drivers are given access to credit so they can eventually own their taxis

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I want to know what's wrong with me. Unless you know your weaknesses, how can you improve?"