Working in the mining industry requires strong physical and mental resilience, as well as the willingness to take responsibility. This is reflected in the professional journey of Fadli Wahda, widely known as Akha. A graduate of Mining Engineering from Muhammadiyah University of Ternate, Akha demonstrates that sustainable career growth is built through consistency, dedication, and hands-on experience in the field.
Akha began his career in 2018 in Buli, East Halmahera, where he served as a safety officer. In this role, he developed discipline and adaptability while working within the demanding and dynamic environment of mining operations.
He carried this experience with him when he crossed over to Obi Island to join Harita Nickel in October 2019. At the time, the site was far from as established as it is today. As a Field Safety officer, Akha was directly involved in the early stages of construction, a phase filled with challenges.
During this period, large-scale construction activities were underway, heavy equipment operated continuously, and personnel from multiple contractors worked simultaneously. Akha’s responsibilities extended beyond administrative safety checks; he was tasked with ensuring that all personnel could perform their duties safely and return home without incident.
“The challenges at that time were substantial. We were not only implementing procedures, but also establishing a safety culture. Communicating safety requirements effectively, without causing friction, was a skill I developed through daily practice,” Akha recalled.
His performance and collaborative approach led to his promotion to Foreman in 2021. This transition marked a critical phase in his professional development, as he shifted from being a peer to assuming a leadership role. Managing former colleagues and providing direction required strong interpersonal and leadership capabilities.
“The primary challenge was mental adjustment. Previously, we worked side by side in the field; suddenly, I was responsible for giving direction. I chose an inclusive leadership approach rather than a directive one,” he explained. As a Foreman, Akha was also responsible for resolving on-site issues and ensuring effective coordination with management.
In his new role, Akha led a team of more than a dozen personnel. He maintained an active presence in the field and prioritized open communication to ensure operations ran efficiently without creating unnecessary hierarchical barriers.
This balanced leadership style, approachable yet firm, was positively recognized by management. In September 2025, Akha was appointed as OHS Monitoring Supervisor, a role with broader and more strategic responsibilities. Despite this advancement, his operational focus and field-oriented mindset remain central to his work.
Akha’s promotion received direct acknowledgment from Harita Nickel’s Safety Superintendent, Tomy Bongga. According to Tomy, Akha exemplifies leadership developed through operational experience.
“Akha demonstrates a strong capacity for adaptation. His key strength lies in translating company policies into practical guidance that is easily understood and applied by field personnel. This promotion reflects recognition of his initiative and leadership effectiveness,” Tomy stated.
For Akha, Harita Nickel represents more than a professional workplace, it is an environment that supports long-term growth. His contributions at the Obi site have resulted in tangible outcomes, including improved stability for his family in Ternate and a more structured outlook for the future. Harita Nickel has served as a platform for realizing his professional aspirations.
Despite his current supervisory position, Akha remains committed to continuous improvement. “As long as opportunities exist, there is always room to grow. The key is to keep learning, uphold integrity, and remain humble in all professional interactions,” he concluded.