On Obi Island, career journeys often begin with simple opportunities, then evolve over time through experience, perseverance, and dedication. For many local residents, success is not instant; it unfolds gradually, in step with the dynamics of a growing industry.
One such story is that of Frangi Cako, a young man from Kawasi. He began his career at Harita Nickel in 2015 as a security officer at just 18 years old. Over time, his discipline and experience led him to become a Team Leader, and since September 2025, he has served as a Security Supervisor.
“In Industrial Sector 3, we have 43 personnel assigned to strategic points across the company,” he said.
For Angki, as Frangi is commonly known, the role of security goes far beyond guarding posts. His responsibilities include managing personnel, coordinating safety measures, and handling administrative work. He has also had the opportunity to attend computer training, something he had never experienced before.
“Here, we learn new skills that directly support our work,” he added.
Angki also challenges the perception that local workers have limited opportunities to grow. For him, those opportunities are real, provided there is a willingness to learn and work hard.
“I was born and raised in Kawasi. Reaching this position proves that local talent has real opportunities here. What matters is dedication, not complaints,” he emphasized.
Having spent more than a decade working his way up from the ground level, his journey carries a clear message for the younger generation of Obi: there are no shortcuts to building a career.
From the Field to Supervisory Roles
A similar journey is shared by Yokber Cecene, now a Supervisor in Construction & Engineering. He joined the company in 2007, when around 50 Kawasi residents were recruited to help lay the foundation of operations.
“I started from the most basic roles. Now, I lead a team consisting of several foremen and crew members,” he said.
His experience is closely tied to construction work, including the development of the Akelamo Bridge connecting Kawasi and Soligi. Dedication and accountability have been key to his career progression.
This growth is also reflected in his personal life. Once a young worker, he is now a family man, with a child currently pursuing education in Yogyakarta.
“Our family’s economic condition has improved significantly. My wife now runs a small grocery business near our residential area,” he shared.
For Yokber, industrial development has not only created jobs but also opened up broader economic opportunities for the surrounding community.
A New Generation Taking Its First Steps
From the younger generation, Sifa Sahbila Amirudin represents a different pathway. The 19-year-old from Soligi Village began her journey through the PELITA (Skills and Competency Development Program), Batch IV, with a focus on Mandarin language training.
She is currently an intern in the HRGA Department, working as a translator. “I chose to study computer skills and Mandarin because they are highly relevant to the industry’s current needs,” she explained.
Financial constraints once prevented her from pursuing higher education. However, the internship opportunity has opened new doors for personal growth.
At first, she admitted feeling uncertain and lacking confidence. Yet, her experience in the workplace has helped her grow. “I was warmly welcomed. Many colleagues supported and guided me,” she said.
For Sifa, this experience is not just about work; it is a first step toward supporting her family and building her future.
The stories of Angki, Yokber, and Sifa reflect the transformation taking place on Obi Island. Amid the rapid growth of the nickel industry, more local talents are no longer merely bystanders, they are stepping forward and taking part.
They are growing alongside the industry and are now truly becoming key contributors in their own homeland.
