Chapter 5: Harvest

We maintained intense communication with our trader in Singapore. Phone calls became the primary channel, discussing chart movements and the opportune time to re-enter the market. "The price has reached the target, Marlon," the trader said one morning, his voice calm yet professional. With Father's approval, who fully trusted my instincts and knowledge, we significantly bought dollars again when the rupiah strengthened to around Rp7,000 to Rp8,000. This was our second purchase, taking advantage of the temporary strengthening momentum.

Then, on October 20, 1999, just as I remembered, Gus Dur officially became Indonesia's president, replacing B.J. Habibie. His arrival brought new hope, but also unexpected political turmoil. During his government, the rupiah again showed fluctuations.

We monitored closely. I knew there was one more major momentum we could leverage. On July 23, 2001, that dark memory returned. Gus Dur was impeached and replaced by Megawati Soekarnoputri. This moment of power transition, although I had anticipated it, still triggered market uncertainty. The rupiah again significantly weakened against the dollar.

"Here it is, Father," I said to Father, pointing to the chart in the financial newspaper we subscribed to. The dollar had again touched a profitable figure for our third sale. Quickly, we contacted the trader in Singapore again. This time, we sold the dollars we had bought during the Habibie era, when its price had strengthened significantly again during the leadership transition. According to my memory, the dollar had strengthened to around Rp15,000 at that time. We sold our dollars within that range.

Profit Overview from Forex Transactions

Now, with the dollars sold again in the second round, when Gus Dur was impeached and the rupiah weakened in mid-2001, we had accumulated extraordinary profits. Remember, we started with a net capital of about Rp12 billion from Grandfather and Father.

Let's calculate this profit more clearly, with a correction for the allocated amount:

First Purchase (June 1997): Initial Capital: Rp12,000,000,000 Dollar Purchase Price: Rp2,500/USD Dollars obtained: Rp12,000,000,000 / Rp2,500 = 4,800,000 USD

First Sale (June 1998): Dollars Sold: 4,800,000 USD Dollar Sale Price: Rp16,000/USD Rupiah obtained: 4,800,000×Rp16,000=Rp76,800,000,000

Gross profit from the first round: Rp76,800,000,000 - Rp12,000,000,000 = Rp64,800,000,000

Second Purchase (End of 1998 - Mid-1999): From Rp76.8 billion, we set aside Rp10 billion for miscellaneous needs and to retain some initial profit. So, the remainder used to buy back dollars was Rp76.8 billion - Rp10 billion = Rp66.8 billion.

Dollar Purchase Price: Rp7,000 - Rp8,000/USD (average Rp7,500/USD) Dollars obtained: Rp66,800,000,000 / Rp7,500 = 8,906,666 USD (approx.)

Second Sale (July 2001): Dollars Sold: 8,906,666 USD Dollar Sale Price: Rp15,000/USD (when Gus Dur was impeached, the rupiah weakened to this range) Rupiah obtained: 8,906,666×Rp15,000=Rp133,599,990,000 (approx. Rp133.6 billion)

With these two rounds of forex transactions, we successfully accumulated a substantial amount of rupiah assets. From an initial capital of Rp12 billion, we now had assets totaling billions of rupiah, even reaching Rp133.6 billion, safely stored in our Singapore trust fund!

This money wasn't just a number. It was a strong foundation for the future I had planned. Tangible proof that future memory was the most potent "golden finger" one could possess, and yet remained human.

With a sense of immense relief and a burden somewhat lifted, Father and I returned to Singapore. This journey felt different; no longer rushed or overshadowed by uncertainty. An aura of success enveloped us.

At the Bank of Singapore, we gazed at the figures in the financial report. The sum of Rp133.6 billion was now clearly displayed in our trust fund. That figure brought me, adult Marlon trapped in a child's body, an extraordinary sense of calm. This was concrete proof that my sacrifice, my decision to return, and all the risks we took, had borne sweet fruit.

Of course, before that figure truly became ours, there were obligations to fulfill. After discussing with our legal counsel, we knew that the funds had to be deducted for taxes and trader commissions according to Singaporean law at the time. I knew perfectly well that Singapore had a very efficient and transparent tax system, but there was still a portion that belonged to the government and for the services that had helped us. These deductions were reasonable and had been included in my calculations.

After all deductions were made, the extraordinarily large remaining funds were ready to be used. Father and I then began to make detailed plans for the use of this money in Singapore. This was no longer just about accumulating wealth, but about building the economic, physical, and spiritual strength I had promised Grandfather. Property, long-term investments, and preparation for a better future, everything would begin from here.

With an immense sense of calm, Father and I looked back at the account statement. The figure Rp133.6 billion was clearly displayed, tangible proof of our strategy's success. However, Father immediately reminded me of the obligations we had to fulfill in Singapore.

"We have to deduct for taxes and trader commissions first, Marlon," Father said, pointing to several columns in the report. "According to the law here." I nodded. I knew Singapore indeed had an efficient tax system. From my memory, for profits from such forex transactions, there was likely no significant capital gains tax. However, for compliance and service fees, there were still deductions.

After discussing with our legal counsel and referring to the estimated trader commissions we had agreed upon, we finally arrived at the final figure. Approximately three percent of our net profit, or about Rp3.767 billion, was allocated for taxes and legal fees. Meanwhile, our trader's commission, who worked hard executing instructions, took a portion of about one percent of the total realized profit, which was about Rp1.336 billion.

The total amount of these deductions was indeed significant, exceeding eight billion rupiah. However, after all these obligations were met, the remaining funds we had were still extraordinarily large. "So," Father smiled widely, pointing at the figure on the screen, "we have... about Rp125.584 billion."

That figure, one hundred twenty-five point five eight four billion rupiah, was truly calming. The burden on my shoulders felt lighter. This was real financial power, far beyond my family's wildest dreams in my previous life. With this amount, my plans to build a solid economic, spiritual, and physical foundation for our family, and for Indonesia's future, were no longer just dreams. This was a reality I could achieve.

With the Rp125.584 billion now under our control, Father and I immediately held a crucial meeting in Singapore. This time, we were not only with our trader but also a professional financial manager directly recommended by the Bank of Singapore. The meeting room on the top floor of the skyscraper became a silent witness to the birth of a new financial empire.

"Alright," I said, though with a child's voice, "we will start with the distribution of these funds." I explained my plan clearly and concisely. Most importantly, as Father reminded and as was our obligation, 3% of the total funds would immediately be set aside for zakat. That was the non-negotiable first step. After that, the remaining funds would be divided into two major parts. 70% of the funds would remain in Singapore, becoming the core of our financial strength abroad. The remaining 30% would go to Indonesia. "This money will be used to fully pay off all the pledged stock debts from Grandfather to the bank, and also pay off Father's debts," I explained. This was important to clean up our financial records and remove the burden of debt.

Then, we moved on to the long-term investment strategy. Together with the trader and financial manager, we formulated a plan to create a venture capital company. "Its headquarters," I said, "will be in Cayman Island." I knew this would provide optimal tax benefits and privacy. However, this company would not remain idle there. "Then, we will have branches in Singapore, Indonesia, and America." This would allow us to invest in various different markets, diversifying risk and maximizing potential profits.

In addition, I also made a specific request to the trust fund team: "to create an IT company in Singapore." The purpose was clear: to develop YouTube-like services and other video sharing platforms, which would operate in Singapore and America. "It's not yet possible in Indonesia, Father," I explained, "because internet connectivity isn't evenly distributed yet." I knew timing was everything, and even though YouTube didn't exist in 2001, I could build its foundation now. This was an investment in the future of technology that would revolutionize the information world.

Father, the trader, and the financial manager listened intently, nodding in agreement with each point. They must have been amazed by the vision of a small child who saw so far into the future. A hidden financial and technological empire was now beginning to materialize.

With the fund distribution plan agreed upon, it was time to proceed further. From the total Rp125.584 billion we had after taxes and commissions, we allocated 3% for zakat, which was about Rp3.767 billion. The remaining funds were Rp121.817 billion.

Then, we divided these funds:

30% for Indonesia: Approximately Rp36.545 billion would be transferred to Indonesia to pay off Grandfather's stock debt and Father's debt. 70% remaining in Singapore: Approximately Rp85.272 billion (or equivalent to about $8.5 million USD if we assume an average exchange rate of Rp10,000/USD at that time) would remain in Singapore.

In Singapore, along with the trust fund's financial manager, I gave further instructions. "Father," I said, looking at the financial manager, "I want these 70% of the funds to be converted back into US Dollars as soon as the dollar price drops again. We'll wait for the right moment, when the rupiah strengthens again." My plan was to use these dollar funds as the main capital for our global expansion. "With the venture capital company we're going to establish, Sundawani," I stated the name I had chosen, a tribute to my ancestors and the Sundanese land, "we will go to America."

In America, I already had specific investment targets that would further change our future. "Try to buy shares in Apple," I instructed, "sometime after early 2002 or late 2001." I knew that during this period, Apple would begin its resurgence under Steve Jobs' leadership, and its shares would still be relatively affordable before the iPod and iPhone boom.

"Then," I added, "if possible, try to buy shares in Google, even if just a little." I knew Google wouldn't IPO (Initial Public Offering) until 2004, but I wanted to invest any amount of capital there if there was an opportunity for early investment or through a venture capital mechanism before the IPO. I couldn't let this golden opportunity pass by.

The financial manager took meticulous notes, nodding in agreement with each step. Father smiled proudly. With these directions, we would not only secure our financial future but also become a part of global technological history.

With all the instructions I had given to the trust fund's financial manager, I felt relieved. The strategy had been laid out, the figures were clear, and the vision of the future was ingrained. Now, it was time to delegate. My Father and I gave full discretion to the trust fund manager.

"You can start looking for an office," I said, looking at him, "and recruit the necessary employees." Their objective was clear: to make investments from the trust fund we had accumulated, according to the directions I had given, whether it was buying Apple shares, trying Google, or seeking other opportunities. In addition, they would also manage the Sundawani venture capital company that would be established. This meant they would be the driving force of the financial empire we would build on a global scale.

The financial manager nodded firmly, his face showing readiness and professionalism. He had the resources, expertise, and most importantly, a clear vision from us. All preparations had been made.

Finally, with a sense of calm and confidence that everything was in the right hands, Marlon and his Father returned to Indonesia. The mission in Singapore was complete for now. Now, the focus would return to the homeland, to prepare other pillars of strength, and of course, to continue monitoring the impact of the changes we had initiated.

The year 2000 was still ongoing, and Indonesia was slowly recovering after the reform storm. Amidst all of that, my ears caught important news from the future: BCA was going to IPO. That memory immediately lit up in my mind, a golden opportunity not to be missed.

I immediately spoke with Father, who was now more accustomed to my "knowledge" from the future. "Father," I said, "when we hear news that BCA is going to IPO, we must immediately instruct the trust fund manager and trader in Singapore to buy as many of its shares as possible." Father looked at me, a little surprised by my urgency. "BCA?" he asked, as if confirming.

"Yes, Father," I answered firmly. "If possible, allocate Rp10 billion to buy shares in Bank BCA's IPO." I knew that amount was significant, but the risk was commensurate with the reward. "It's a blue-chip stock, Father. Very safe for the long term."

I explained that BCA, despite being hit by the crisis, would rise and become one of Indonesia's largest and most stable banks. Investing there would be a solid foundation for our portfolio in Indonesia, separate from the volatility of the forex market. This was a strategic step to embed some of our large profits into more stable and growing assets in our homeland.

Father nodded; his trust in me was now beyond doubt. A quick message or phone call to Singapore would soon be made, directing the trust fund manager to prepare for Bank BCA's IPO.

After instructing the purchase of BCA IPO shares, I again emphasized my strategy to Father. "For now, Father," I said, "only BCA shares are what we need to own in Indonesia."

I knew the reason very well. Although there were many other companies that would IPO or were already listed, I didn't want to bet too heavily on the domestic stock market at this time. "The others," I continued, "I will study first."

This didn't mean I underestimated Indonesia's potential, but my memory from the future gave me a less optimistic picture. "Even in 2025," I explained, "the stock market in Indonesia won't be very big. In fact, at that time, when all stock exchanges in Asia rose, Indonesian stocks actually fell by themselves due to the political situation."

I felt a slight reluctance as I said it. Unstable political conditions, unexpected interventions, and a lack of legal certainty in the future made me somewhat hesitant to heavily invest in Indonesian stocks. BCA was an exception due to its status as a very resilient blue chip, capable of weathering various crises. But beyond that, the risk in the domestic market felt too high compared to the potential returns. Our focus would be more on global investments, especially in America and Singapore, while making BCA a solid anchor in our homeland.

After returning to Indonesia and resting for a few days, recovering from the journey and previous tensions, my Father and I returned to meet Grandfather at his office. This time, the atmosphere felt much lighter, even full of anticipation. We came not to ask, but to bring long-awaited good news.

As soon as we entered the commissioner's room, Grandfather greeted us with a warm smile. He must have felt the positive aura we carried. "What is it, Son?" he asked Father, but his eyes were also on me. "Grandfather," Father said, his voice full of relief and pride, "we bring good news." I nodded, then added, "We've brought the money here, Grandfather. To pay off all the debts."

Grandfather's face immediately changed. His old eyes widened, and a broad smile spread across his lips. A great burden that he might not have realized until now was lifted. The debts collateralized by his company shares, Father's debts—all would be paid off. This was the beginning of true financial freedom for our family, a solid foundation for a brighter future, the result of knowledge only I possessed.

Grandfather looked at both of us, Father and me, with teary eyes. The shock previously etched on his face slowly softened, replaced by deep relief and immense happiness. He didn't speak immediately. His wrinkled hand reached out, grasped Father's shoulder, then gently ruffled my hair. This wasn't just about money; it was about promises, trust, and a future saved.

"Grandfather... Grandfather didn't expect it," his voice was hoarse, full of emotion. "How did you... how did it happen so quickly?" Father smiled. "Thanks to Marlon, Dad. All of this is thanks to him." Father looked at me proudly, as if wanting to share all the praise with me.

I gave a small nod, letting my Father explain further. He outlined the general transactions in Singapore, how we monitored the dollar's movement, and how the precise timing, guided by my knowledge, resulted in extraordinary profits. Grandfather listened to every detail, occasionally shaking his head in disbelief, but his lips never stopped curving upwards.

"So... Grandfather's company shares that were pledged... and your debts, Darmawan..." Grandfather looked at Father.

"All have been paid off in full, Grandfather," I confirmed. "And our assets in Singapore have multiplied far beyond the initial capital."

Immediately, Grandfather rose from his chair, walking towards the window of his room. He looked out at the bustling city of Bandung, as if letting the fresh air fill his expanded chest. The burden he might not have realized until now, carried in silence as a family patriarch and businessman, was now truly lifted. The shares that were once collateral were now free. His good name, and Father's good name, were clear of debt.

Grandfather turned, looking at me again, this time with a much deeper gaze. "Marlon," he called, his voice now firm again but full of warmth, "you... you truly are a blessing. Perhaps this is our ancestors' way, God's way, to ensure our lineage is not destroyed." He remembered my promise to protect the family and return to our origins.

"We will fulfill the promises you asked for, Grandfather," I said, reiterating my pledge. "I will continue to fight for the family, and Majalengka... I will build something there."

Grandfather smiled, a genuine smile I rarely saw. Relief and pride clearly radiated from his eyes. This was a turning point. The economic foundation was solid, the debts were paid off. Now, we could truly focus on genuine development.