On the second day of the visit, TCFB representatives were warmly received by the UC Family Business Centre at Universitas Ciputra. The day began with an in-depth campus tour that highlighted the institution’s vibrant ecosystem, including an enlightening session with student entrepreneurs at UC Ventures. Attendees were treated to a rare glimpse inside one of only four Apple Developer Academies in Indonesia—a facility that underscores the university’s commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with entrepreneurial learning.

Following the academic tour, the delegation enjoyed a simple yet memorable lunch at the pristine Ciputra Golf & Family Club. This meal provided not only a break from the day’s activities but also an opportunity for informal networking, setting the stage for further discussions on the cultural nuances that shape family businesses in the region.

A highlight of the trip was a thought-provoking discussion led by Shan Loy, Manager for Strategic Partnerships & Networking (representing TCFB) and Pak Aruwan Soenardi of PT Gading Murni (representing Universitas Ciputra), the two compared the cultural and operational differences between family-owned enterprises in Indonesia and Malaysia. Their exchange underscored the importance of understanding local traditions and management styles, a key factor in building resilient family businesses across Southeast Asia.

Day three offered a delightful immersion into Indonesia’s rich culinary traditions. The delegation dined at Depot Sari, a cherished three-generation family-owned restaurant renowned for serving authentic local dishes such as ‘sup buntut’ and ‘rawon merah.’ This dinner not only celebrated local heritage but also reinforced the value of family legacy—a central tenet for businesses with a generational focus.

The final day of the trip was dedicated to strategic discussions aimed at expanding the centre’s collaborative horizons. Meetings with Dr. Michael Adiwijaya and Ardine Gunawan, S.E. explored potential partnerships between TCFB and Hallmar Business School, with a focus on enriching entrepreneurial education. Later, over a casual dinner at Lincafe Resto at Ciputra World Mall, discussions with Dr. Ir. Antonius Tanan revolved around establishing long-term international partnerships and planning future global ventures.

The day concluded with an after-dinner coffee session at Excelso Cafe at Ciputra World Mall. In this relaxed setting, TCFB representatives met with Pak Teddy Saputra, Pak Mario Vianney, and Anita Nyoto to lay the groundwork for collaborative international student trips—a venture aimed at empowering the next generation of family business leaders.

“This trip was a catalyst for new ideas and partnerships,” Shan Loy said. “By engaging directly with academic institutions, local entrepreneurs, and family business leaders in Surabaya, we are better equipped to support family-owned enterprises with bespoke learning experiences and strategic guidance.”

As Taylor’s Centre for Family Business continues to expand its global footprint, the lessons learned and connections forged in Surabaya are set to inspire a new wave of collaborative initiatives. With its mission to empower family enterprises, the centre is poised to become a nexus for bespoke experiences, lifelong intergenerational learning and curated networking — benefiting not only family businesses but also the broader community of academics and professionals dedicated to the sustainable growth of family-led enterprises.

For further updates on Taylor’s Centre for Family Business and upcoming initiatives, visit our website at www.taylorsfamilybusiness.com or follow us on LinkedIn.