Chapter 14: Creative and Sport Space

I envisioned the Creative Space as a hub of innovation, a place where artists, designers, programmers, startups, and other creative industry players could gather. There would be studios, co-working spaces, galleries, and facilities for developing new ideas. Meanwhile, the Sport Space would be a comprehensive sports center, featuring a mini-stadium, various sports fields, a modern gym, and supporting facilities for athlete development.

"I plan for this construction to take about five years, Dad," I said. "So, if we start now, God willing, both 'space' projects can be operational by 2011."

My father smiled broadly. He perfectly understood the vision behind this project. It wasn't just about building structures, but building an ecosystem. This was a long-term investment to advance Bandung and West Java, while also creating a strong foundation for Sundawani.

"This is a brilliant idea, Marlon," Dad said, patting my shoulder. "I'll help with whatever I can."

After all the transactions with Google were complete, and billions of dollars had flowed into our trust fund in Singapore, the Sundawani property company immediately moved fast. Their main mission was to find the best architectural firms in the world to create a comprehensive plan, or masterplan, for our two giant complexes: the Sport Space and Creative Space, totaling 60 hectares.

This was no ordinary project. Its massive scale and ambition attracted many world-class architectural firms to participate. Emails and proposals flooded our team's desks. They came from the United States, Singapore, England, Hong Kong, Switzerland, and of course, many from Indonesia. All of them were big names in the global architecture industry, with portfolios of iconic projects worldwide.

Our property team, with the help of expert consultants, held a series of marathon meetings for months. They studied every proposal, reviewed each firm's track record, analyzed design visions, and of course, considered the costs. I myself, though still in junior high, monitored the process, providing input based on my knowledge of architectural trends and future needs.

During the rigorous selection process, one name immediately caught my attention because I was already familiar with their work from the future: Herzog & de Meuron. They are a highly renowned architectural firm from Switzerland; one of their iconic works is the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany. That stadium, with its outer facade that can light up and change colors, is a masterpiece of sports architecture. I knew that the construction cost of the Allianz Arena itself was around 340 million Euros at the time.

"Property manager, what about Herzog & de Meuron?" I asked one time. "They have an unrivaled reputation for designing large-scale sports facilities."

After months of intense discussions, negotiations, and presentations, a decision was made. Finally, the Sport Space project was entrusted to Herzog & de Meuron for its masterplan and architectural design. We believed that with their touch, Sundawani Sport Space would become a modern sports center that was not only functional but also an architectural icon in Southeast Asia. The price they offered was indeed high, but it was commensurate with their quality and experience in building world-class sports facilities like the Allianz Arena.

Meanwhile, for the Creative Space, we chose another equally excellent architectural firm: Gensler. Gensler is a global firm well-known for their innovative designs in offices, commercial centers, and creative spaces. They have extensive experience in creating dynamic work environments that foster collaboration.

"Gensler will be a great fit for the Creative Space, Marlon," our property manager said. "They have a deep understanding of how space can spark creativity and innovation."

The masterplan for the Creative Space was also entrusted to Gensler, at a considerable cost, given their reputation and design quality. They would design a complex that not only consisted of buildings but also an ecosystem supporting the growth of the creative industry. There would be film studios, co-working spaces, design laboratories, exhibition halls, and much more, all designed to inspire and connect creative practitioners.

With the selection of these two world-class architectural firms, I felt even more confident that Sundawani's vision would be brilliantly realized. This was the beginning of the physical construction of our "business empire," a solid foundation for the future I dreamed of for Bandung, West Java, and even Indonesia. This project would be tangible proof that grand visions can be realized with meticulous planning and collaboration with the best global talent.

After all the YouTube sales transaction documents were handled by the Singapore trust fund and Google, Sundawani Property immediately hit the gas. They began processing all the necessary permits for the construction of the two giant projects, Sport Space and Creative Space. Obtaining permits in Indonesia is not an easy matter, especially for a project of this scale. It took months of back-and-forth with various government agencies, completing documents, and giving presentations.

However, thanks to Grandpa's strong connections and a competent legal team, all permitting obstacles were overcome. Finally, in early 2007, construction began simultaneously for both complexes. Heavy equipment started moving into the 60-hectare site, foundations were laid, and the hustle and bustle of construction workers filled the previously empty area. This project was indeed ambitious, and I had targeted completion by 2011. I wanted to see both spaces standing majestically and fully operational when I graduated high school or started college.

Approaching Crisis: Harvesting Money from Economic Collapse

Amidst this construction progress, my mind had already leaped far ahead. I knew exactly what would happen in 2008: the Subprime Mortgage Crisis in the United States, a financial storm that would sweep the world and cause a global recession. This was a terrible moment for many people, but for me, it was a golden opportunity to reap huge profits.

The subprime mortgage crisis was a phenomenon where banks in the U.S. provided mortgages (Home Ownership Loans) to people who were actually unable to make their payments (subprime debtors). Banks then packaged these high-risk loans into complex investment products called Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS) and sold them to investors worldwide. To make matters worse, many of these MBS were guaranteed by insurance called Credit Default Swap (CDS), sold by large companies like AIG. Everyone thought home prices would continue to rise, so the risk of default was considered small. But it was just a bubble.

When home prices began to plummet and many subprime debtors defaulted, the value of MBS also crashed. Companies that sold CDS as insurance, like AIG, had to bear incredibly large losses due to overwhelming claims. This caused panic in the global financial markets, liquidity dried up, and major banks were on the verge of bankruptcy. Many known as "Too Big To Fail" like Lehman Brothers, Bear Stearns, and even JP Morgan, Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and AIG itself were severely shaken.

So, here was my plan: to leverage future knowledge for immense gain.

"Trust fund team," I told my financial manager in early 2007. "We're going to conduct a massive divestment. I want you to periodically sell all our shares in the global stock market, especially in America. We will accumulate as much cash as possible."

The manager was a little confused. "All shares, Marlon? The stock market is doing well, and we just made huge profits from Google and YouTube."

"I know," I replied. "But trust me. There will be a huge storm in 2008. We need to be ready with abundant cash to buy opportunities. When everyone is panicking and selling assets cheaply, we will be the buyers."

After selling all shares, my next strategy was to bet on market collapse.

"Prepare that cash to buy Credit Default Swap (CDS) from the large banks most exposed to this risk," I said. "Our targets are JP Morgan, Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and especially AIG."

The manager was slightly hesitant. "CDS is a high-risk instrument, Marlon. It's like insurance that pays if a bond defaults. That means we're betting that those banks will collapse or face severe problems."

"Exactly," I replied confidently. "I know for a fact they will collapse, or at least need massive bailouts. When that happens, the CDS we buy will be worth very, very much. This is how we harvest money from the system's collapse."

This was a massive gamble. Accumulating cash amidst a booming market and then buying instruments that depend on financial collapse was a counter-current strategy. But I had the biggest advantage: I knew the future. I would use this global crisis as the greatest stepping stone for Sundawani, making us an unstoppable financial force.

On one side of the world, my trust fund team was busy with my wild directives. On the other side, I continued my life as a normal teenager, preparing for a new chapter at school.

Investigation Mission: Convincing the Trust Fund Team

My plan to sell all assets and buy CDS ahead of the 2008 crisis indeed sounded reckless to my trust fund team. My financial manager, who was usually very cautious, asked for concrete evidence.

"Marlon, we need stronger data to convince other investors in this trust fund," he once said over the phone. "The concept of this subprime mortgage crisis is still not very clear to us here."

"Okay," I said. "I want you to conduct in-depth research on the subprime mortgage crisis in America. Send your best team there. Find out everything about subprime lending practices, how banks package them into investment products, and how CDS insurance works."

They complied with my request. For over a month, my trust fund research team worked hard. They flew to America, interviewed economists, analyzed financial reports of major banks, and observed property market trends. They dug for data, trying to understand mortgage loans given to people with poor credit histories, how those loans were packaged into complex investment bundles, and how the housing market had become a bubble ready to burst.

Every week, my financial manager would report on the research progress. Initially, there was doubt. "Some experts we met are still optimistic, Marlon," the manager said in one of his reports.

"Dig even deeper," I urged. "Find out about the hidden risks, about how credit rating agencies were too lenient, and about the aggressive sale practices of CDS by insurance companies."

Finally, after weeks of immersing themselves in data and analysis, their perspective began to shift. Reports started showing warning signs. They saw how home prices in America had soared without a strong foundation, how even low-income individuals could buy homes with unreasonable loans, and how the entire financial system was interconnected in a complex web of risk.

"Marlon, you're right," my financial manager said seriously one day. "We've found strong indications that the property bubble is about to burst. Perhaps by late 2007, or at the latest, early 2008."

There was relief in his voice, but also a hint of fear. "We're ready to follow your direction. We're ready to profit from the American market."

The trust fund team then began to devise a detailed strategy for buying CDS. They identified the banks and financial institutions most exposed to risk, such as JP Morgan, Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and especially AIG, which was a major player in the CDS insurance market. They also began building connections with parties selling these instruments, preparing a substantial amount of cash from the sale of our market shares. The process was very complicated and required shrewd negotiation, as we were betting against the market current. But they were ready.

On another note, I had graduated from junior high. As in my previous life, I chose to continue my education at SMA Negeri 5 Bandung, one of the favorite high schools known for its smart students. I chose this school not only for its reputation but also for another reason that caught my attention.

I knew very well from the gossip circulating among teenagers and also from my future memories that Tirani, a social media artist who would become very famous at that time, would attend school there. Tirani was not only beautiful but also had a strong charm, with a lifestyle that was always in the spotlight. I was interested in getting to know her, not for serious romantic purposes (again, I already knew relationships would come and go), but more out of curiosity and perhaps, to understand the phenomenon of an influencer up close.

So, when the first day of high school arrived, I walked through the corridors of SMA 5 with mixed feelings of enthusiasm for learning, excitement to make new friends, and a slight curiosity to see if Tirani was truly as popular as I had heard. This was a new chapter in my life, where I would play the role of a regular high school student, while behind the scenes, moving the wheels of global business and preparing myself to face the coming financial storm.

The year was 2007. I stepped through the gates of SMA Negeri 5 Bandung, the favorite school that would become part of my teenage story. The atmosphere here was very different from junior high. The buildings were larger, and the aura felt more serious. This school indeed had a high reputation.

The problem was, SMA 5 was quite far from my house. The distance was quite draining in terms of energy and time. If I had to drive from my home in Bandung Regency, I would have to leave very early in the morning to avoid being late and getting stuck in traffic. Just imagining it made me tired.

"Dad," I said one evening, during dinner. "I think I need to use a motorcycle to school."

My father looked at me. "A motorcycle? Are you sure?"

"Sure, Dad. If I take the car, I have to wake up at four in the morning every day. I'll always be late," I explained. "Bandung's roads are getting more crowded now, you know."

My father sighed. He knew I was old enough and could be trusted. "What motorcycle do you want?"

"I want to use my favorite 2006 Triumph America," I replied with a smile. That black cruiser motorcycle was one of the 'toys' I bought with my investment money. Its classic shape was imposing and comfortable for long rides.

Dad smiled. "All right, but be careful. Don't speed."

From that day on, my new adventure at SMA 5 began with my beloved ride. The biting cold morning air of Bandung often accompanied me on the journey. I rode leisurely, enjoying the still-empty roads, while thinking about Sundawani's grand plans.

At SMA 5, I met many new faces. They came from various top junior high schools in and around Bandung. Some were easy to connect with, others were still a bit shy. I tried to socialize with everyone, remaining the relaxed and friendly Marlon.

When I entered the classroom, I saw her. The girl whose name I had heard even before entering this high school. She sat in the front row, her long hair cascading beautifully, and her smile... exactly as I had imagined. She was Tirani. And yes, we were in the same class.

I chose an empty seat near the window, not too far from her. During the first break, I decided to approach her.

"Hi," I greeted, trying to sound casual. "I'm Marlon. You're Tirani, right?"

Tirani turned, her large eyes looking at me. "Yes, I'm Tirani. Nice to meet you, Marlon." Her voice was soft and friendly.

"You're new here too, right?" I asked.

"Yes. From Junior High 11," she replied. "Where are you from?"

"I'm from Junior High 83," I said. "It's a bit far from here. How do you get to school?"

"My driver drops me off, hehe," Tirani chuckled. "What about you?"

"I ride a motorcycle," I answered with a grin. "So I don't get late early in the morning."

Tirani was surprised. "A motorcycle? That's so cool! What kind of motorcycle?"

"Triumph America," I said.

"Wow, that's a classic motorcycle! You like motorcycles, do you?" Her eyes sparkled. It seemed she was interested in the motorcycle I rode.

"Somewhat. It's better for long trips," I explained. "You're new too, right? What's your first impression here?"

"It's okay, but still a bit awkward. Haven't met many people yet," Tirani admitted. "A lot of really smart people here, it seems."

"Just relax," I said. "You'll get used to it. We're in the same class, we'll definitely see each other often."

From that brief conversation, we started talking more often. It turned out Tirani wasn't arrogant at all; she was very friendly and pleasant. We began to get acquainted and slowly started to become friends. She often asked about my favorite motorcycle, and I was also curious about her world, which was rumored to become a "social media artist" in the future.

My high school life began with new dynamics. I explored a new environment, met new friends, and forged a friendship with Tirani. Behind all that, the wheels of Sundawani's business continued to turn, and I knew I had a lot to do in the future. This was an exciting and surprising chapter.

Several weeks into school at SMA 5, I started getting used to the new routine. Lessons were more complex, and the social environment was expanding. Amidst all that, my friendship with Tirani grew closer. We often chatted between classes, during breaks, or even after school hours.

One afternoon, while Tirani was waiting for her pickup at the school gate, I casually asked her.

"Tirani, where do you live, anyway? I live quite far, in Bandung Regency, specifically Margahayu."

Tirani smiled. "Oh, my house is in Taman Kopo, Marlon. Our houses are surprisingly close."

Hearing that, I smiled wryly. "Oh, Taman Kopo. I thought you lived closer, in central Bandung. So you could take it a bit easier getting here."

"Not really," Tirani replied. "I also live quite far from here. From Taman Kopo to Jalan Belitung, where SMA 5 is, it takes a good amount of time. Especially with morning traffic."

"Yeah, I feel that too," I said with a sigh. "That's why I choose to ride my motorcycle. Rather than waking up at the crack of dawn just for traffic."

Tirani nodded in agreement. "That's true. Sometimes I envy you being able to ride a motorcycle. Waiting for a ride sometimes takes forever."

Since that conversation, a new habit began. A few times, when school was dismissed, I offered, "Tirani, want a ride home? I'm on my motorcycle, and we're headed in the same direction, both to Bandung Regency."

Initially, Tirani was a bit hesitant, but over time, she agreed. "Okay, rather than waiting for the driver for ages."