IN 1995, a young man from Lombok, Wayan Suena, set foot in Bali with little more than determination, a suitcase of dreams, and a small amount of savings. Fresh out of SMIP Mataram, he had just completed a hotel training program and decided to take his chances in Bali’s vibrant tourism industry. He stayed in a modest guest house, living simply while working to support himself. Life was far from easy, but his spirit to learn and grow never dimmed.
READ ALSO: The Inspiring Journey of Wayan Suena: From a Cidomo Driver’s Son to Tourism Professional
His first break came at Bali Bungee Jumping (1995–1999), an experience that introduced him to the bustling world of Bali’s tourism. Here, his dedication stood out. The owner, recognizing Suena’s persistence, offered him the chance to complete an advanced professional course in Japanese. At a time when Japanese tourists dominated Bali’s arrivals, this skill became an unexpected advantage that would shape his future career.
Hungry for knowledge, Suena enrolled in STIMI Handayani, pursuing a degree in Tourism Management. By day he worked, by night he studied, gradually carving out a path that combined both practical and academic strength.
His career began to accelerate. From 1999 to 2001, Suena worked with Bounty Cruise, a well-known marine tourism operator that broadened his international network. In 2001, he was trusted with the role of Sales Marketing Manager at Bali Fantasi Rafting, owned by a Korean businessman. Two years later, he sharpened his managerial skills in Pererenan before being appointed Executive Manager at Dreamland Villa in 2005. By 2009, he was already serving as Business Consultant at Bali Safari & Marine Park, a position that gave him firsthand experience in managing large-scale tourism enterprises.
But the defining moment came in 2010. After 15 years of working for others, Wayan Suena took a leap of faith and built his own ventures: Indonesia Impression Tour and Hotel Andari Legian. Unlike most entrepreneurs who rely heavily on financial capital, Suena’s greatest asset was intangible—trust.
“Money can come and go, but the trust people give you is priceless,” he often says.
For Suena, honesty had always been his compass. It was honesty that won him opportunities, built his reputation, and eventually gave him the courage to stand on his own. What began as a humble journey from a simple guest house in Bali has now turned into a story of resilience, integrity, and success in the tourism world.
Wayan Suena’s life proves that sometimes the most powerful turning point is not a sudden stroke of luck, but a lifelong commitment to honesty. His story is a reminder that in both life and business, integrity is not just good character—it is the foundation of lasting success. **
Writer: Karolina, Editor: Igo Kleden
