Think Like an Entrepreneur: Jusuf Hamka’s Journey from the Streets to the Toll Roads
Editorial Introduction
GerakanMandiri.com believes: true independence is not born from waiting for others, but from the courage to create. Becoming an entrepreneur is not just about business—it’s about mindset, initiative, and the determination to stand on your own two feet. The story of Jusuf Hamka, one of Indonesia’s most inspiring entrepreneurs, proves that anyone can rise, no matter how low they start.
From the Bridge Underside to the Top of Business
Jusuf Hamka’s story is not a fairy tale—it is reality. Once, he lived under a bridge, facing life’s harshest struggles. But he never gave up. Instead of being crushed by circumstances, he chose to fight.
“Money isn’t the real capital—mentality is. Dare to try first; the money will follow,” Jusuf often says.
That mentality turned him from a boy who had nothing into a man who now owns and manages toll roads across Indonesia.
Courage First, Capital Follows
Many people think that becoming an entrepreneur requires large capital. But Jusuf Hamka dismantles that myth. He started small, with what was available, and with courage as his main weapon.
What made him different? He dared to start. While many waited for perfect conditions, Jusuf took imperfect steps—then learned along the way.
“If you keep waiting for big capital, you’ll never start. What you need first is courage, not money.”
Building, Not Complaining
As an entrepreneur, Jusuf Hamka emphasizes the importance of solving problems, not adding to them. He sees obstacles as challenges, not excuses.
When he entered the toll road business, many doubted him. But instead of giving up, Jusuf proved that persistence and honesty could win trust and open doors.
This is the spirit of Gerakan Mandiri: independence begins when we stop complaining and start creating.
From Individual Success to Shared Benefit
For Jusuf, success is not just about personal wealth. Through his business, he opens job opportunities, empowers communities, and provides social assistance to those in need.
This aligns with the values of Gerakan Mandiri: individual independence must create collective strength. A successful entrepreneur is not one who enriches themselves alone, but who becomes a source of benefit for many.
Lessons for the Nation
What can we learn from Jusuf Hamka?
Dare to start, even with limitations – because courage is the first true capital.
Don’t depend on others – independence grows when you stop waiting and begin moving.
Turn obstacles into opportunities – challenges are stepping stones, not barriers.
Share success – true independence is when your work empowers others.
This is the essence of Gerakan Mandiri: independence is not given, but built step by step with courage, honesty, and persistence.
Closing Reflection
From the underside of a bridge to becoming the “Toll Road Tycoon,” Jusuf Hamka’s journey reminds us: anyone can rise, anyone can create, anyone can become an entrepreneur.
Indonesia doesn’t need more spectators—it needs more creators, initiators, and entrepreneurs who dare to stand tall.
Because, in truth, a strong nation is not built by those who keep waiting, but by those who dare to create.
📌 Sources & Inspiration
Interview with Jusuf Hamka (2024)
Podcast & public talks on entrepreneurship and independence
